More serious tics can occur in a condition called Gilles de la Tourette syndrome . Tics are more common than many people think. Somewhere between 1 in 10 and 1 in 5 children develop a tic at some time, although these normally pass quickly on their own without any help from a doctor or specialist.
Tics are more common in boys than in girls.
Tourettes syndrome is very rare. Usually all that is needed is some reassurance and advice, for both the parents and the child. In cases that 'hang around' for longer, things like relaxation and techniques derived from behavioural therapy can be used. One such technique is called satiation . This is where the child is encouraged to make the tic movement or sound, on purpose, over and over again until they are tired.