After a concussion, also referred to as a mild traumatic brain injury, it takes time for the brain to heal. Getting lots of rest and resuming normal activities gradually are a crucial part of the recovery process. If your child has had a concussion, these five tips can help you make their return to the classroom a little easier.
The medical community has seen an upswing in concussion research in recent years. Experts have found that the range of symptoms associated with this type of head trauma can manifest in different ways, vary in intensity, and last for weeks.
Returning to normal activities too soon carries the risk of delaying your child’s recovery or even worsening their condition. That’s why it’s essential to heed the advice of your child’s doctor and follow a return-to-school protocol adapted to your child’s needs and pace of recovery.
Only a medical professional can diagnose a concussion and propose a recovery plan. The integration plan developed by your child’s school can also help ensure a smooth return to the classroom.
The rest period following a concussion can be anywhere from two days to several weeks. Exactly how much time your child will need depends on a number of criteria that only a health specialist can properly assess. During this period, the priority is for your child to get as much rest as possible.
Here are some things you can do to help:
Once your child is symptom-free and you get the all clear from a health care professional, you can help them slowly resume intellectual activities (e.g., reading, playing board games) at home before their return to school. Here’s an example of what steps to take:
Even if your child’s symptoms are completely gone, their brain may not be fully healed. It’s natural for your little one to be excited about resuming their activities at their normal pace. But not allowing their brain to heal properly could hold them back in school. The key is to respect your child’s pace of recovery and to follow their doctor’s recommendations.
Once you’ve notified the school that your child has had a concussion, the school team will become an important ally. They’ll develop a return-to-school protocol adapted to your child’s needs. Of course, you can also meet with your child’s teacher for information about the following:
Check out the guide we created to help you prepare for meeting with your child’s school team.
After their concussion, your child may temporarily have difficulty concentrating. They might also experience intense fatigue. You can help your child counter these effects by suggesting different ways to adapt their study habits:
Writing : The Alloprof Parents' team