What Every Parent Should Know About Concussions

Kids fall. It’s what they do. Off swings, off bikes, off trampolines, off each other.

Most of the time, they’re fine. A little cry, a quick hug, and they’re back to playing.

But sometimes, even when they seem totally fine, that bump on the head is more serious than you think.

What Actually IS a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or even a hit to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth.

This movement causes the brain to bounce or twist inside the skull, creating chemical changes and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.

Concussion Myths vs. Reality

MYTH: They have to lose consciousness.

REALITY: Most concussions don’t involve loss of consciousness.

MYTH: Symptoms show up immediately.

REALITY: Symptoms can appear hours or even days later.

MYTH: If they seem fine, they’re fine.

REALITY: Kids often downplay symptoms or don’t recognize them as abnormal.

MYTH: It’s just a headache, they’ll be fine by tomorrow.

REALITY: Returning to normal activities too soon can delay recovery or cause serious complications.

When to Seek Care

Come to Night Watch if your child:

• Had any blow to the head (sports, fall, accident)
• Is showing ANY concussion symptoms
• Needs clearance to return to sports or school
• Had a head injury days ago and symptoms are appearing now

Better safe than sorry when it comes to your child’s brain.

Signs Parents Should Watch For

• 🤕 Headache or “pressure” in head
• 😵‍💫 Dizziness, nausea, or balance problems
• 😶‍🌫️ Feeling “foggy” or slow
• 😡 More irritable or emotional than usual
• 😴 Sleeping more or less than usual
• 📚 Trouble concentrating or remembering
• 👀 Sensitivity to light or noise

What Parents Can Do

• Get a proper evaluation even if symptoms seem mild
• Keep them out of sports until medically cleared
• Monitor symptoms for 24-48 hours after injury
• Limit screen time during recovery
• Follow return-to-learn and return-to-play protocols

We’re Here to Help

At Night Watch, we provide:

• Thorough concussion assessments
• Return-to-play medical clearances
• School accommodation letters
• Recovery plans & parent education

It’s not “just a bump.” Get it checked.