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What to Do When a Child Is Having a Seizure

Abnormal electrical discharges in a child's brain could cause seizures. Seizures are characterized by muscle spasms a child can't control; sometimes the child loses consciousness. Seizures in children can be caused by medical problems such as low blood sugar or infection. Head injury, drug overdose or an accidental poisoning can also cause seizures, as can illnesses related to the brain could also cause seizures. Every parent or caregiver should know what to do when a child is having a seizure.

  1. Prepare the Area

    • If a child is having a seizure, you need to act quickly to help keep them safe. If he is in a car seat, wheelchair or stroller, make sure he is securely strapped in. If the child is not secured, look around the area for objects that might hurt the child. Remove any threatening objects and find a clean space on the floor for the child to lie on. Look around for something soft to cushion the child's head during the seizure. Start timing the seizure as close to the seizure onset as possible.

    Help the Child During the Seizure

    • The best way to help a child during a seizure is to remain calm. Do your best to make the child safe and comfortable. Avoid putting any objects into the child's mouth during the seizure. Watch carefully to see which body parts are affected by the seizure so you can check them after the seizure ends. Add some cushioning underneath the child's head so she doesn't continuously slam her head onto the floor.

    After the Seizure

    • After a seizure, a child most likely needs reassurance. Keep curious onlookers away and comfort the child by explaining where he is and what just happened. Alleviate any discomfort caused by injuries during the seizure. If a child is unconscious, place her on her side. Call for medical help if necessary. If you kept track of the time during the seizure, you want to inform the medical help of exactly how long the seizure lasted.

    Calling for Medical Attention

    • There are several circumstances when it is prudent to call for professional medical assistance. The Nemours Foundation website offers recommendations on when you should call for these medical services. When in doubt, it's best to err on the safe side. Look for signs of breathing difficulty or head injury or poison ingestion. You also want to notify emergency personnel if a seizure lasts for more than five minutes or if the child's mental state seems unusual.

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