Finding the perfect balance between rest and returning to regular activities can be a challenge for parents who have a child home from school with a concussion. Rest is the critical first step to recovering, but too much can be a bad thing. And while rest is the critical first step to recovering from a concussion, experts warn it’s important to get kids back into the swing of things sooner rather than later. That doesn’t mean they’re going to have a normal school day, he says. Kids might need adjustments in school, especially if they’re having difficulties getting their work done in a normal time frame.
Here’s how the most common concussion signs and symptoms can interfere with kids’ daily school life: Headache; Dizziness and lightheadedness; Visual and audible sensitivities; Concentration and memory; Disordered sleep. In the first few days post-concussion, it may be beneficial for kids to stay home from school. A student may only be able to tolerate TV, light reading and interactions with his or her family for short bouts of time. Once students are able to comfortably tolerate their symptoms for up to 30 or 45 minutes, parents and a health care provider can determine if going back to school is the next step. However, it’s important to notify the school that the child has suffered a concussion so the proper adjustments can be made. Children really shouldn’t think about returning to sport until they’re fully returned to the classroom.