Helping Your Child Build Confidence and Respond to Questions About Tics & Tourette’s

For children with Tourette’s syndrome or other tic disorders, navigating social interactions can be a challenging experience. Uncontrolled motor or vocal tics can draw attention, lead to questions, and sometimes even result in bullying or social exclusion. As a parent, one of the most important things you can do is help your child build confidence and equip them with strategies to handle these situations with confidence and self-assurance.

Understanding Social Stigma Around Tics

Tics—whether they manifest as involuntary movements or vocal sounds—can be misunderstood by others. Because tics often occur unexpectedly and repeatedly, they may attract attention from peers, teachers, and even strangers. This can sometimes result in uncomfortable situations for your child, such as:

• Unwanted Questions or Comments: People may ask questions about the tics, make assumptions, or even unintentionally make your child feel uncomfortable with their reactions.

• Teasing or Bullying: Unfortunately, some children may be teased or bullied because their tics set them apart from their peers.

• Social Exclusion: Children with tics may feel left out or isolated, as they might find it hard to engage in activities where their tics draw attention.

So How Can You Help Your Child?

1. Normalize Tics in Conversations at Home

The first step in helping your child manage social stigma is to normalize tics at home. The more comfortable your child feels about their tics, the more confident they will be in managing them in social settings.

• Talk Openly About Tics: Encourage open and honest conversations about your child’s tics. Explain that tics are simply something their body does and that everyone has different habits or behaviors that make them unique. Make sure your child understands that tics are not something to be ashamed of.

• Reassure Your Child: Remind them that tics are involuntary and not their fault. Let them know that while tics might feel noticeable, many people may not even pay much attention to them.

  2. Help Your Child Develop a Confident Response to Questions About Tics

  Children with tics often receive questions from others who don’t understand what they’re seeing. Helping your child develop a calm, confident way to respond can reduce anxiety and empower them in social situations.

  • Prepare Simple Explanations: Work with your child to come up with simple, age-appropriate explanations they can use when asked about their tics. For example:

    • “Sometimes my body moves on its own.”

    • “It’s just something my body does; I can’t control it, but it’s okay.”

    • “I have tics. They’re like a sneeze – they just happen.”

  • Let Them Know: It’s Okay to Stand Up for Yourself: Teach your child how to advocate for themselves. If someone makes fun of their tics, they can say, “I can’t help it, so please stop teasing me,” or simply, “That’s not okay.”

  3. Build Self-Esteem by Celebrating Strengths

  While managing tics is important, it’s equally critical to focus on building your child’s overall self-esteem. Help your child feel confident in who they are by celebrating their strengths, interests, and unique qualities.

  • Highlight What Makes Them Special: Regularly remind your child of their talents, skills, and interests. Whether they’re great at art, love animals, or are a fast runner, make sure they know that their identity isn’t defined by their tics.

  • Encourage Hobbies: Help your child find activities they enjoy and feel confident in. Whether it’s a sport, a creative outlet, or a hobby, participating in something they love can boost self-esteem and provide a positive focus.

  • Set Goals and Celebrate Progress: Help your child set small, achievable goals and celebrate when they meet them. This could be in school, social settings, or personal development. Recognizing their progress—whether it’s a new skill they’ve learned or simply staying calm during a stressful situation—can foster a strong sense of accomplishment.

    Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (C-BIT) is a fantastic intervention to help your child develop positive self-esteem, take control of their tics, and conquer fears and anxieties.

    Click Here to learn more about Tic and Tourette’s Intervention