Who decides when my child can play again?

A health care provider, not the coach or parent. CDC HEADS UP says the return-to-sports decision is a medical decision that should be made by a health care provider, and an athlete should return to sports only with that provider's approval.

• Don't judge severity yourself. Coaches and parents aren't expected to diagnose a concussion. Their job is to spot it and remove the athlete.
• Get it in writing. NFHS high school guidance (2023) says an athlete diagnosed with a concussion needs written clearance from an appropriate health care professional before any practice or competition. Some state laws also require written clearance.
• Clearance starts the steps; it doesn't skip them. After clearance, the athlete still goes through the step-by-step return-to-sports progression before full play.