Concussion Commandments

1. Observe for Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head.

• Temporary loss of consciousness. One pupil larger than the other.

• Drowsiness or inability to wake up.

• A headache that gets worse and does not go away.

• Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination.

• Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching).

2. Remove from Play

If the concussion happens during sports, you should also keep the child out of play the day of the injury.

3. Seek Medical Attention

Have your child seen by a medical professional. They should not return to play until a medical provider says he or she is symptom-free and it’s OK to return.

4. Observe for Worsening Signs or Symptoms

Watch out for worsening headaches or new symptoms and report them immediately to your doctor.

5. Communicate with Your Coaches

Please update and advise your coaches of your child's medical status and progression. Even upon returning, coaches need to know if there is anything prudent to watch out for.

Coaches Who Care

Whether you are a sports coach, parent, teacher, or young athlete, you know that coaching is key to success in most endeavors. In fact, research shows coaching is so important in athletics that it can be the deciding factor between those who achieve at the highest level and those who don’t.

Researchers have studied the role of youth sports coaching for many years. Studies show that sports coaches who give positive reinforcement, provide effective feedback, and foster a caring climate provide the best developmental outcomes for children. The teachings of a good coach can last lifetime.

Why Youth Sports

Research shows a child's involvement in sports helps them to improve their social interaction, increase their confidence, and improve their listening skills and health. Participation in sports is linked to higher grades, lower dropout rate, reduced truancy and lower crime rates.

Kids play sports to have fun, belong to a group, find excitement and gain recognition. It allows them to improve their skills and learn new ones, become fit, and find “success” (which is not shown on the scoreboard alone). When children are playing sport, they are learning how to interact with the world around them and the people in it.  Through

sports, children learn how to contribute to something bigger than themselves.