Mild head injury and concussion

Initially you or your child’s teacher may notice some changes in your child’s behavior and/or ability to concentrate and understand information at home or at school.

Note: Children often fatigue quickly after a head injury and this can exaggerate any of these symptoms.

Physical

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Poor coordination
• Clumsiness
• Noise sensitivity

Behaviour/Emotions

• More demanding and easily frustrated
• More fearful and anxious
• Changed sleep patterns
• Irritability
• Mood swings

Cognitive

• Slowness with thinking
• Problems with concentrating
• Memory difficulties

Return to school

It is important to let the school know about your child’s recent injury. If your child is experiencing fatigue, rest is important and consideration should be given to return to everyday activities gradually.

After your child has been back at school for one month, we suggest you talk with the teacher about whether there are ongoing changes in your child’s performance since the head injury. Any concerns should be discussed with your GP or the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program listed below.

Return to sport

Your child should avoid contact sports and other activities where they may sustain another head injury

until all symptoms of concussion have resolved. Following a head injury your child’s reaction times and thinking will often be slower putting them at risk of further injury.

Contact and high risk sports include:

• Tackle football
• Soccer/hockey
• Basketball/netball
• Horse riding
• Motorbike/BMX riding/skateboarding

YOUR CHILD SHOULD ALWAYS REMEMBER TO WEAR THEIR HELMET

It is important, to encourage gradual return to physical activity. Encourage your child’s participation in gentle activities such as the following:

• Swimming
• Walking
• Stationary cycling
• Practice of ball skills
• Tennis
• Cricket
• Dancing

If you have any concerns or your child is experiencing any symptoms (see over) after one month please contact the Coordinator of the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program at the following Hospitals. They will be able to give you advice and refer your child to your local service.