Return to School After Concussion

We want patients to return to school as soon as they are able. However, students recovering from a concussion will often need some accommodations at first.

Our team will provide formal letters of communication at each visit to update the school on the patient’s progress and needs. In addition, if necessary, our nurses will work with your child’s teacher, principal and school nurse to ensure they are able to meet these needs.

In most cases, the school staff cooperates fully. If necessary, the Children’s Health School Services teachers can clearly communicate the child’s needs in the language the school district can understand and relate to.

School Accommodations Needed After Concussion

Here are examples of the accommodations that will help the child recovering from a concussion to re-enter school. They will then slowly return to their normal function:

• Quiet zones: Lights and sounds can be troubling. They should be able to do their work in a silent environment with soft lighting.
• Special attire: Due to light and noise sensitivity, the child should be allowed to wear a hat, sunglasses or noise-canceling headphones if needed.
• Frequent breaks: Returning to everyday activities should be done gradually. If a child needs a break, he or she should be able to visit the nurses’ station to lay down or rest.
• Reduced workload: After having a concussion there is a possibility of having symptoms that may interfere with a patient’s ability to learn. Therefore, a gradual return to school work is necessary.
• Hydration and snacks: Increased water intake is essential to concussion recovery. The child should be allowed to carry a water bottle during the day. A healthy, well-balanced diet is important, so the child may need to eat more frequently and should be allowed to have snacks throughout the day.
• Shortened class periods: Children should be able to leave class 5 to 10 minutes early, so they can walk the hallways to get to the next class by themselves. It’s important that the children do not get bumped or jostled while the brain is recovering.

Return to Play Protocol

Once a child is no longer using any accommodations in the classroom he or she is ready to resume physical activity. Learn about our return to play protocol.

Contact Us

Call our concussion 24-hour advice line at 844-414-6824 to speak to a medical professional or to make an appointment.