• A concussion is a brain injury.

• Concussions are caused by a bump or blow to the head. Even a "dinq," "getting your bell runq, " or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.

• You can't see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury.

• If your child reports any symptoms of concussion, or if you notice the symptoms yourself, seek medical attention right away.

Every sport is different, but there are steps your children can take to protect themselves from concussion.

Ensure that they follow their coach's rules for safety and the rules of the sport.

Encourage them to practice good sportsmanship at all times .

Make sure they wear the right protective equipment for their activity (such as helmets, padding, shinguards, and eye and mouth guards). Protective equipment should fit properly, be well maintained, and be worn consistently and correctly.

Learn the signs and symptoms of a concussion.

Signs Observed by Parents or Guardians

If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head during a game or practice, look for any of the following signs and symptoms of a concussion:

• Appears dazed or stunned

• Is confused about assignment or position

• Forgets an instruction

• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent

• Moves clumsily

• Answers questions slowly

• Loses consciousness (even briefly)

• Shows behavior or personality changes

• Can't recall events prior to hit or fall

• Can't recall events after hit or fall

Symptoms Reported by Athlete

• Headache or "pressure" in head

• Nausea or vomiting

• Balance problems or dizziness

• Double or blurry vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Sensitivity to noise

• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy

• Concentration or memory problems

• Confusion

• Does not "feel right"

1. Seek medical attention right away. A health care professional will be able to decide how serious the concussion is and when it is safe for your child to return to sports.

2. Keep your child out of play. Concussions take time to heal. Don't let your child return to play until a health care professional says it's OK. Children who return to play too soon-while the brain is still healing risk a greater chance of having a second concussion. Second or later concussions can be very serious. They can cause permanent brain damage, affecting your child for a lifetime.

3. Tell your child's school nurse and coach about any recent concussion. School nurses and coaches should know if your child had a recent concussion in ANY sport.

It's better to miss one game than the whole season.