When your child falls or bangs their head, many of us mums simply pick them up, brush them off and send them back out to play after giving them a quick check. However, would you know if they were concussed or if they needed medical attention?

 

When it comes to the head and the brain we need to be extra careful and vigilant as any injuries can affect your little one significantly.  

 

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is an acquired brain injury. Just like people, every concussion is unique.  Each person will have different affects from the concussion. A brain injury can have wide-ranging physical and psychological effects.

 

What are the signs of a Concussion?

  • Tiredness or listlessness
  • Irritability or crankiness
  • Changes in eating
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Changes in the way the child plays
  • Changes in performance at school
  • Lack of interest in favourite toys or activities
  • Loss of new skills, such as toilet training
  • Loss of balance or unsteady walking
  • Vomiting
     

What should you do if your child has a concussion?

If after resting the head and your child still doesn't feel well, you should see a doctor. Remember – when in doubt, check it out!

 

How can you protect your child's brain?

  • Wear a seatbelt in the car
  • Wear a helmet on your bike or board
  • Wear Hi Visibility Jackets when walking to and from school 
     

A group of Masters in Applied Psychology Students are raising awareness for brain injury in children during Brain Awareness Week (16th to 22nd March). In consultation with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland these students have designed an educational programme for children in 5th and 6th class to educate them on the brain, how it can be injured, what are the potential effects of such an injury and what these children can do to help themselves protect their brain. 

 

The core message these students want to relay to these young children is:

 

B Because your brain matters

R React immediately

A Alert an adult

I Identify symptoms

N Never ignore a head injury 

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