This guide outlines essential seizure precautions and first aid for children with epilepsy. Help family, friends, teachers and caregivers respond safely and confidently during an emergency.

Published: January 30, 2026

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

If you’re a parent of a child with epilepsy, you know the fear: wondering if your child will have a seizure when you’re not around, and worrying whether those around them will know what to do.

Create a personalized seizure action plan

Work closely with your child’s neurologist to develop a detailed seizure action plan. This document should describe what your child’s typical seizures look like, how long they usually last, clear steps on what to do, when rescue medication should be given and when it’s time to call 911.

Share this plan with everyone who regularly cares for your child, including family members, school nurses, teachers, coaches and babysitters. Having this information readily available ensures consistent, appropriate care, regardless of who is present with your child during a seizure.

Seizure first aid: The 3 S’s

When a child has epilepsy, learning proper seizure first aid is necessary. Remember these three S’s to follow during a seizure:

• STAY with the child: Keep calm, remain with the child throughout the seizure, and time how long it lasts.

• Keep the child SAFE: If the child is standing, gently lower them to the floor. Remove any nearby objects that could cause injury, cushion their head with something soft like a folded jacket, and clear the surrounding space.

• Turn them on their SIDE: Positioning the child on their side prevents choking, keeps the airway clear and allows saliva to drain from the mouth.

These simple steps should be included in your child’s seizure action plan.

What NOT to do during a seizure

It’s important to know common mistakes to avoid when responding to a child having a seizure. Certain actions can harm a child during a seizure episode. Remember these tips:

• Never put anything in the child’s mouth. This common myth can cause broken teeth or choking.
• Don’t restrain or hold the child down . This won’t stop the seizure and could result in injury.
• Avoid giving food or water by mouth during or immediately after the seizure.
  
  

When to call 911 for a seizure

Call 911 immediately and seek emergency medical help when:

• This is the child’s first seizure.
• The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
• Multiple seizures occur without recovery between them.
• The child has difficulty breathing after the seizure.
• The child experiences an injury during the seizure.

Seizure safety tips for parents

Implementing seizure precautions at home can reduce the risk of a child being injured. Parents should implement the following seizure precautions, both at home and during recreational activities:

• Choose showers over baths. Showers help minimize drowning hazards. Also, never leave the bathroom door locked when it is in use.
• Ensure constant swimming supervision. Children with epilepsy should never swim alone.
• Stay nearby during climbing activities. This includes playground equipment, tree climbing, rock climbing, etc.
• Prioritize consistent sleep schedules. Fatigue is a common seizure trigger for many children.

Educate your child’s support network

Having a child with epilepsy naturally can increase a parent’s worries, but proper seizure precautions can help create a “safety net” for your child, allowing them to participate more fully in school, extracurricular activities and their social life.

Parents should never hesitate to educate family members, friends, teachers and caregivers about seizure preparedness. Share your child’s seizure action plan openly, demonstrate proper positioning techniques and always encourage asking additional questions.