Concussion in Children

Concussion in Children: The Basics

A bump to the head is a normal part of childhood. Whether it happens on the playground, during sport, or after a fall at home, many parents or carers are left wondering whether their child has suffered a concussion.

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a sudden impact or movement that causes the brain to move inside the skull. While most children recover fully, symptoms are not always obvious and may develop over several hours or days.

Symptoms and Signs of Concussion in Children

Concussion symptoms vary depending on a child’s age. Younger children may struggle to explain how they feel, so changes in behaviour can be an important warning sign.

Common concussion symptoms in children include:

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Balance problems
Fatigue
Sensitivity to light or noise
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood changes
Changes in sleep patterns

Signs of Concussion in a Baby vs Toddler

Babies can’t verbalise their symptoms, so paying attention to their behaviour is especially important. A concussion in a toddler can be equally tricky to spot because their symptoms often resemble typical toddler behaviour.

Signs of Concussion in a Baby	Signs of Concussion in a Toddler
Unusual or persistent crying	Becoming unusually clingy or upset
Feeding difficulties	Loss of interest in favourite activities
Increased irritability	Balance problems or unsteadiness
Excessive sleepiness and difficulty waking	Reduced appetite
More vomiting than usual	Changes in sleep patterns
Reduced interest in people or surroundings	Behaviour that seems out of character

Should You Keep a Child Awake After a Concussion?

In most cases, keeping a child awake after a concussion is not necessary. Rest is an important part of recovery, and children do not need to be kept awake after a concussion unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

How Brain Injury Group Can Help

If your child has experienced a concussion and you’re unsure what support or next steps may be appropriate, Brain Injury Group can help. We provide access to a national network of medical, rehabilitation and legal specialists, helping families get the right support at the right time.