Concussions in Children & Youth

New information on identifying and responding to concussions now available.

Accidents happen as children learn and grow. But what happens when a child suffers a significant head injury? What if they are too young to communicate how they feel as a result? With increasing research about the long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries, it is important for caregivers and program leaders to understand how to properly identify and respond to head injuries in children and youth.

New content has been added to the Safe Environments course for all direct care staff, Training & Curriculum Specialists, and program managers. The information includes examples of how a concussion may occur in young children, common symptoms associated with a concussion for each age group, and recommended response protocols including when to seek emergency care.

As with any serious injury that a child sustains in your care, you should use your best judgement to assess a head injury. Always notify the child’s family or caregiver and, when in doubt, seek appropriate medical attention. Learn more about concussions in the new material now available in each track's Safe Environment course linked below: