Tics are sudden, repeated movements or sounds, like blinking, throat clearing or shoulder shrugs. Tourette syndrome involves both movement and vocal tics lasting over time. Tics are involuntary and often worsen with stress, excitement or tiredness.
Tics often come and go, and many children manage them well. Staying calm and not drawing attention to tics usually helps more than reminders to stop.
What parents may notice
- May blink, grimace or shrug repeatedly
- May clear their throat, sniff or make sounds often
- May feel an urge before a tic that eases after it
- May have tics that change over time
- May have more tics when tired, stressed or excited
- May suppress tics at school and release them at home
- May also have ADHD, anxiety or OCD
- May feel embarrassed or teased
Seeing some of these does not mean your child has this condition. Only a qualified professional can diagnose.
Strengths worth noticing
- Resilient and resourceful
- Often creative and funny
- Strong empathy for others who feel different
- Determined and hard-working
- Can build great self-awareness
What often helps at home
- Stay calm and avoid commenting on tics
- Never punish or tell them to stop
- Reduce stress and keep sleep steady
- Give them a private space to let tics out
- Educate family and friends in simple terms
- Pay attention to related worries or ADHD
- Ask a clinician about therapies that may help
- Focus on interests and strengths
At school
Show school tips
- Teacher education so classmates are not disruptive or mean
- Permission to leave class briefly
- Extra time on tests if tics are tiring
- No penalties for tic-related disruptions
- Private ways to take breaks
Myths vs. reality
Show myths and reality
Reality: Tics are involuntary. Suppressing them can be tiring and may cause them to rebound later.
Reality: Only a small number of people with Tourette have this. Most tics are ordinary movements and sounds.
Reality: Tics are neurological. Stress can make them worse but does not cause them.
When to talk to a professional
- Tics begin suddenly or are intense
- Tics cause pain, injury or distress
- Tics are affecting school or friendships
- You are unsure if another condition may be involved
- Your child is being teased or feels very low
If your child ever talks about hurting themselves or others, contact their clinician right away, or call or text 988 (US). In an emergency call 911. We are not licensed professionals; this page is general educational information and our best practical thinking, not medical advice.