An epilepsy diagnosis can often be scary and confusing. When a child is diagnosed with epilepsy, they will have a lot of questions about their new condition and what is happening to their bodies. Medical terminology and complex explanations will only confuse them further, which is why it is important to approach the topic with sensitivity and care, engaging children with stories and books meant for them. It is vital that they know they are just like everyone else and they deserve to be included, respected, understood, encouraged, and not bullied and belittled for their condition.
Here are 6 must-read children’s books about epilepsy that we’ve compiled.
1. Mommy, I Feel Funny! A Child’s Experience with Epilepsy – By Danielle M. Rocheford
This book is based on the true story of a little girl Nel who is diagnosed with epilepsy at an early age. The story highlights the thoughts, fears, emotions and, finally, the acceptance that comes hand-in-hand with the discovery of epilepsy. It provides an optimistic perspective for children living with epilepsy.
2. The Great Katie Kate Explains Epilepsy – By M. Maitland DeLand
Katie Kate, a spunky redheaded superhero, takes Jimmy, a child diagnosed with epilepsy, and a few other children on a medical adventure to learn about the various forms and treatments of epileptic seizures. The book addresses questions such as “What is happening to my body?”, “Am I okay?”, “Does this mean I’m different from other kids?”, etc. It provides an entertaining and indispensable tool for parents, medical professionals, teachers, and babysitters to engage young epilepsy patients and help them understand their condition better.
3. My Seizure Dog – By Evan Moss
This book is written and illustrated by 7-year-old Evan Moss. The story revolves around what Evan expects the relationship with his seizure dog to be like and how this experience will change his life. The serious topic of epilepsy is infused with his sense of humour and wit, told in the simple language of a child. To know more about seizure alert dogs, head over to our blog.
4. Becky the Brave: A Story About Epilepsy – By Laurie Lears
This story revolves around Becky, a young girl with epilepsy, and her younger sister Sarah. Becky, who is usually brave, becomes ashamed after she has a seizure during class one day and decides she doesn’t want to go to school anymore. Sarah, who is characteristically shy, walks her sister to school the next day and educates the students about Becky’s epilepsy. This book talks about the importance of educating children with epilepsy as well as those around them to help get rid of stigmas surrounding the condition and ensuring that children living with epilepsy feel normal and respected.
5. Let’s Learn With Teddy About Epilepsy – By Dr. Yvonne Zelenka
A young boy is diagnosed with epilepsy and we follow his doctor’s visits as well as the different tests and positive treatments he undergoes. The book also talks about his relationship with his parents and friends. It helps children and their families to identify and understand some of the symptoms of epilepsy, enjoyably.
6. The Adventures of Buzz Bee – By Jacqueline Ann Gibson
Buzz Bee abruptly begins feeling strange and starts falling into flowers and around the hive. After a visit to the doctor, he realizes that he has been having seizures and is diagnosed with epilepsy. This fun and educational book teaches children about epilepsy and how it is treated.
There are many more books for children with fun and interesting stories to help educate them on epilepsy and help answer their questions. Many of these books also showcase children wearing protective devices that detect epilepsy such as the Inspyre by SmartMonitor that helps detect repetitive shaking motion and alerts family members and other caregivers with seizure alerts. If you enjoyed this list or have other books to share, comment below, we’d love to hear from you. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for facts, interesting posts and help on how to live with epilepsy.