What should happen if my child hits their head during a game or practice?
Guideline- USA
- USA Basketball
- NBA
- Youth recreation
- Under 10
- Ages 7-8
- Ages 9-11
- 2018 guidelines
- Parents
Follow the CDC HEADS UP steps (USA Basketball and the NBA cover health and safety in their youth guidelines too):
- Remove your child from play right away if a concussion is suspected. When in doubt, sit them out.
- Keep them out for the rest of that day. Feeling better a few minutes later doesn't mean it's safe to go back in.
- Have them seen by a health care provider experienced in evaluating concussion.
- Return only with written permission from that provider. Returning to sport is a step-by-step process that can take a week or more.
Signs to watch for include headache or "pressure" in the head, dizziness or balance problems, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, confusion, or just not "feeling right." Tell the coach about any symptoms, even if they appear later.
Added 21 Oct 2026