Lyme Basic
Children and Lyme Disease
Children are the most affected age group for Lyme disease, yet they often go undiagnosed. Kids are physically closer to the ground—where ticks live. They play in leaves, roll in grass, snuggle pets, and explore nature, increasing their exposure to tick bites.
Children are the most affected age group for Lyme disease, yet they often go undiagnosed. Kids are physically closer to the ground—where ticks live. They play in leaves, roll in grass, snuggle pets, and explore nature, increasing their exposure to tick bites.
However, because they can’t always explain what feels wrong, their symptoms may be misread. Adults might see moodiness, defiance, or “acting out” instead of recognizing underlying illness.
Many children suffer quietly. Their bodies hurt, sleep is disrupted, school becomes overwhelming, and they lose interest in play.
Feeling misunderstood by parents, teachers, and peers can take a toll. It may lead to frustration, withdrawal, or low self-esteem—adding another layer to their physical symptoms.
Common Pediatric Lyme Symptoms
Severe fatigue, insomnia, headaches
Abdominal pain, nausea
Poor concentration, memory issues
Mood swings, irritability, confusion
Joint and muscle pain, dizziness, light/noise sensitivity
(Studies show that fewer than 10% of children with Lyme develop the classic bull’s-eye rash.)
Furthermore, children with Lyme may struggle with:
Use our Lyme Symptom Checklist to document your child’s symptoms and generate a printable report for your healthcare provider.
When Lyme Begins Before Birth
While many children contract Lyme disease from tick bites, some may be born with it. Gestational or congenital Lyme disease refers to transmission from mother to baby during pregnancy. This can happen whether the mother was infected while pregnant or even years earlier.
Children with congenital Lyme may face developmental delays, neurological symptoms, chronic fatigue or pain, and emotional or behavioral challenges. Because these symptoms often overlap with other conditions, congenital Lyme is frequently misdiagnosed. In some cases, when a child presents with signs of chronic illness, doctors may test both the child and the mother for tick-borne infections. Occasionally, this leads to the mother discovering that she herself has Lyme disease.
Co-Infections
Whether children get Lyme from a tick bite or are born with it, they may face more than just Lyme. Co-infections like babesiosis, bartonella, and ehrlichiosis can make symptoms worse. Exposure to toxic mold can also add to the problem.
PANS/PANDAS
Lyme and co-infections may also play a role in Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS). These conditions can cause sudden, dramatic changes in behavior, mood, and cognitive function—and are often mistaken for psychiatric or developmental disorders.
PANS is a broad condition triggered by infections (such as flu, mycoplasma, or Lyme), metabolic issues, or inflammation. PANDAS is a subset of PANS specifically linked to strep infections.
Children may suddenly develop obsessive-compulsive behaviors or food restrictions, motor and vocal tics, severe anxiety (including separation anxiety), mood swings, aggression, behavioral regression, sleep disturbances, urinary issues, and sensory sensitivities. These symptoms often appear abruptly and fluctuate over time, making them difficult to recognize and treat.
Diagnosis is clinical, based on symptom patterns and history. Treatment typically includes antibiotics or antivirals to address infection, immunomodulatory therapies such as IVIG, and psychological support like cognitive behavioral therapy. Early recognition and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
What About School?
Lyme disease can significantly disrupt a child’s ability to learn and thrive in the classroom. Symptoms like disturbed sleep, fatigue, pain, and light sensitivity can make it hard to concentrate, keep up with lessons, or even attend school consistently. When Lyme affects the brain, children may also struggle with reading, writing, comprehension, and other cognitive tasks. Academic success can feel out of reach without proper support.
That’s where Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans come in. These legal tools are designed to help children with chronic illnesses like Lyme disease access the education they deserve.
What Is an IEP?
An IEP is a legal document for public school students who qualify for special education services. It ensures that children with disabilities—including chronic illnesses like Lyme disease—receive tailored instruction and support.
You have the right to request an IEP meeting, which typically involves a team that includes teachers, counselors, and administrators. You may also bring a Lyme advocate and submit a letter from your child’s physician outlining medical needs.
How an IEP Can Help
An IEP can include individualized learning goals, classroom accommodations (such as extended test time or modified homework), adaptive equipment (like voice-to-text software or noise-canceling headphones), flexible attendance options, health management support, and additional services like counseling or occupational therapy. It also establishes ongoing communication between educators, parents, and healthcare providers, with annual reviews to keep the plan relevant as your child’s needs evolve.
Students with IEPs are protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). These rights remain in place as long as your child is in public education, regardless of symptom improvement.
What Is a 504 Plan?
If your child doesn’t qualify for an IEP but still needs classroom support, a 504 Plan may be appropriate. Named after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, it provides accommodations to help students access general education without specialized instruction. These may include modified assignments, extended time on tests, breaks during the school day, and seating adjustments or sensory tools.
Getting Started
Both IEPs and 504 Plans take time to set up. If you believe your child needs support, notify your school administration as soon as possible to begin the process.
Newsletter Sign-up
Note: The information presented on this page has been reviewed and approved by a member of our Medical Leadership Board.
