Concussion Safety
Important information for parents and guardians about recognizing possible concussion symptoms and taking the right next steps if an injury occurs.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth. This movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist in the skull and may create chemical changes in the brain.
How Parents Can Help Keep Players Safe
- Help create a culture of safety for the team.
- Work with coaches to reinforce safe play and proper technique.
- Talk with your child about reporting concussion symptoms immediately.
- Encourage good sportsmanship at all times.
- Use proper safety equipment when appropriate for the sport or activity.
There Is No “Concussion-Proof” Helmet
Helmets may help reduce some serious head injuries, but no helmet can fully prevent concussion. Players should still avoid hits to the head and report symptoms right away.
Signs Observed by Parents or Coaches
- Appears dazed or stunned
- Forgets an instruction or seems confused
- Moves clumsily
- Answers questions slowly
- Loses consciousness, even briefly
- Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
- Cannot recall events before or after a hit or fall
What a Child or Teen May Say
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Double or blurry vision
- Bothered by light or noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Confusion or memory problems
- Just not feeling right or feeling down
Danger Signs: Get Emergency Help Right Away
Call 9-1-1 or go to the emergency department immediately if your child shows any of these danger signs after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body:
- One pupil larger than the other
- Drowsiness or inability to wake up
- A headache that gets worse and does not go away
- Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
- Repeated vomiting or nausea
- Convulsions or seizures
- Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation
- Loss of consciousness, even briefly
What Parents Should Do
- Remove your child from play immediately.
- Keep your child out of play for the rest of the day.
- Have your child evaluated by a health care provider experienced in concussion evaluation.
- Do not allow return to play without medical clearance.
- Ask for written return-to-school and return-to-play instructions when needed.
Why It Matters
Children and teens who continue to play with concussion symptoms or return too soon while the brain is still healing have a greater chance of another concussion. A repeat concussion can be very serious and may have long-term effects.
To learn more, visit the CDC HEADS UP resource: