Helping a child go back to school after a concussion

How a pediatric concussion specialist and a school nurse approach the return

For survivors and families3 min read

Children after a crashConcussionReturn to schoolSchool accommodationsParents

A child healing from a concussion may look fine. Yet they may have trouble reading, remembering directions or coping with a loud classroom. Keeping them home until every symptom is gone usually isn’t needed. Most children can go back within one to two days with some support. Ask your child’s doctor what the first day back should look like. [1]

Let the school know what's going on

Pass along the doctor’s instructions to the teacher, the school nurse and the counselor. Explain the symptoms your child really has. A child who gets a headache from reading may need short work periods. A child who is bothered by noise may need a quieter spot. [1, 2]

For a while, help could include breaks, less screen time, extra time on assignments or putting off a test. Pick supports that match the problem. Then look at them again often. [1, 2]

Class is one thing, sports are another

Being cleared for class doesn’t clear a child for gym, recess games or sports. Anything that could lead to another blow to the head has to wait for a doctor’s OK. Give the school a clear note about activities. With it, one adult’s guess won’t undo the plan. [1, 3]

Change the plan as your child changes

Ask your child what’s hardest at school. A teacher may spot slower work or crankiness before the family does. Tell the doctor if symptoms get worse over the school day or keep causing trouble. The supports should taper off as your child gets better. Symptoms that hang on need another medical review. [1, 3]

What to sort out with the school

  1. Who will gather updates on symptoms each day?
  2. Which assignments can wait without a penalty?
  3. How will we adjust the plan if symptoms get worse?

Send the school one clear summary

Give the school a single written summary of symptoms, supports and activity limits. [1]

Sources and further reading

  1. 1CDC, returning to school after concussion
  2. 2CDC, school brain injury management plan
  3. 3CDC, managing return to activities

This article shares general information from pediatric concussion care and school nursing. Your child’s doctor and school should shape the plan around the symptoms and local rules.

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