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Seizure Response in Infants and Toddlers
Content reviewed against published AAP, Epilepsy Foundation, CDC guidelines
Last reviewed:
A seizure occurs when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. In babies, seizures may look different than in adults — they can include rhythmic jerking, stiffening, lip smacking, eye rolling, or sudden limpness. Most seizures stop on their own, but knowing what to do keeps baby safe.
Immediate actions
- Call 911 immediately
- Note the time the seizure started — duration matters
- DO NOT: Do NOT put anything in baby's mouth — they cannot swallow their tongue
Step-by-Step Response
Note the time
Look at a clock immediately. Seizure duration is critical information for emergency responders and doctors. If possible, video the seizure on your phone.
Ensure safety
Move baby away from edges, stairs, hard objects, or water. Place on a soft, flat surface. Remove glasses if baby wears them.
Position on side
Gently roll baby onto their side (recovery position). This prevents choking if they vomit. Support head gently.
Loosen clothing
Gently loosen any tight clothing around the neck or head. Remove bibs or necklaces.
Observe and record
Note what the seizure looks like: which parts of the body are affected, what type of movements, eye position, changes in color, breathing patterns.
Time the seizure
If seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call 911 immediately. This is status epilepticus and is a medical emergency requiring medication to stop.
After the seizure stops
Baby may be confused, sleepy, or irritable (postictal state). Keep on their side. Speak softly and reassuringly. Do not offer food or drink until fully alert.
Seek medical care
Call 911 if this is a first seizure, it lasted more than 5 minutes, baby is not waking up, or another seizure starts. Otherwise, call your pediatrician immediately.
What NOT to Do
- ✕Do NOT put anything in baby's mouth — they cannot swallow their tongue
- ✕Do NOT restrain or hold baby down during the seizure
- ✕Do NOT try to stop the jerking movements
- ✕Do NOT give baby food, water, or medicine by mouth during or immediately after a seizure
- ✕Do NOT pick up baby and walk around — keep them on a safe, flat surface
- ✕Do NOT panic — most seizures stop on their own within 1-2 minutes
When to Seek Help
Call 911 if:
- Seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
- This is baby's first seizure ever
- Baby is not breathing or turns blue during the seizure
- Baby does not regain consciousness after the seizure stops
- A second seizure occurs shortly after the first
- Seizure occurs in water
- Baby has a known condition and this seizure is different from their usual pattern
- Baby has injured themselves during the seizure
Go to ER if:
- First-time seizure — always requires ER evaluation
- Seizure lasting more than 5 minutes
- Baby is not fully recovering within 30 minutes after seizure
- Seizure after a head injury or fall
- Baby appears to be having trouble breathing after the seizure
- Multiple seizures in one day
Call your doctor if:
- After any seizure — even if baby recovers, a medical evaluation is needed
- Baby has a fever and had a brief seizure (may be febrile seizure)
- You notice unusual movements you suspect may be seizures (subtle signs)
- Baby is on seizure medication and had a breakthrough seizure
- Baby is acting differently after the seizure (not returning to baseline)
Age-Specific Guidance
0-6 months
Seizures in newborns may be very subtle: lip smacking, bicycling movements of legs, eye deviation, or brief stiffening. These can be easily missed or confused with normal movements. Any suspected seizure at this age warrants immediate medical evaluation.
6-12 months
Febrile seizures can begin at 6 months. Infantile spasms (sudden brief stiffening, often in clusters upon waking) typically appear between 4-8 months and require urgent evaluation — these can harm development if untreated.
1-3 years
Febrile seizures are most common between 12-18 months. Toddlers may also develop other seizure types. Any first seizure needs evaluation. If your child has known febrile seizures, your doctor may provide a seizure action plan.
Prevention
- If baby has epilepsy, give anti-seizure medications exactly as prescribed — never skip doses
- Keep consistent sleep schedules — sleep deprivation can trigger seizures
- Manage fevers promptly with appropriate-dose acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for febrile seizure-prone children)
- Ensure baby's sleep area and play area are safe in case of a seizure
- Share seizure action plan with all caregivers, daycare providers, and family members
- Keep a seizure diary: note date, time, duration, appearance, and possible triggers
Frequently asked questions
Should I call 911 for seizure response in infants and toddlers?
What should I do first?
What should I NOT do?
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Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Emergency Guides
Bottom line
This is a serious emergency. Always call 911 first, then follow the steps above while help is on the way.
You are doing the right thing by learning what to do in an emergency. Being prepared is one of the best things you can do for your child.