Fifth Grade Workshop to End Stigma of Epilepsy

Jan. 3, 2012 - PRLog -- JERSEY CITY– In the first weeks of January, trained staff from the Epilepsy Foundation of New Jersey (EFNJ) will continue their statewide traveling workshop by joining fifth grade students at Public Schools 30, 17, 28, 20, 37. The workshop titled "Thinking About Epilepsy" aims to change perceptions of epilepsy at an early age by teaching tolerance and compassion for their peers with epilepsy.

           Because of outdated stigma and lack of understanding, children with epilepsy often face ostracism and bullying from their peers which may produce lasting effects of low self-esteem and depression throughout adulthood. EFNJ hopes to stop the continuation of the outdated stigma by teaching students the necessary facts about epilepsy before leaving elementary school. Almost 25% of all epilepsy diagnoses each year in the United States involve children under the age of 15.
           Staff will educate nearly 500 Jersey City students on how the brain works and what causes seizures, in coordination with the fifth grade science curriculum. Staff will provide students with simple tips to detect seizures and how to provide simple first aid to their peers to empower the class to be active, compassionate participants.

           "It's invaluable for kids with epilepsy to know that their teachers and classmates understand their seizures and how to help them," explains Andrea Racioppi, Associate Director of EFNJ.

           EFNJ joined forces with the Anita Kaufmann Foundation, founder of the "Thinking About Epilepsy" program, in 2007 to bring this empowering educational program to New Jersey schools. To date, EFNJ has trained fifth grade students at nearly 150 elementary schools across New Jersey. Schools interested in participating in the "Thinking About Epilepsy" program may contact Jenna Andolora at 800-336-5843 or via email at jandolora@efnj.com.

The Epilepsy Foundation of New Jersey (EFNJ), an affiliate of the National Epilepsy Foundation and the Family Resource Network, provides programs for families living with epilepsy, such as a residential summer camp, support groups, scholarships, referral programs and respite care. EFNJ also institutes free educational presentations about seizure first aid and police training. To learn more, please visit www.efnj.com.

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The Family Resource Network is a comprehensive, family-focused organization designed to meet the growing need for community based programs & services to individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities & their families in NJ.