What should happen if my child may have a concussion?
Guideline- USA
- USA Football
- Youth tackle
- 12U
- 12 and under
- 2026 guidelines
- Parents
- Team parents
The CDC HEADS UP steps for coaches and parents:
- Remove your child from play right away if they show any sign or symptom of a concussion after a bump, blow or jolt to the head or a hit to the body. When in doubt, sit them out.
- Check for danger signs. Call 911 or go to the emergency department if you see any of these:
- seizures or convulsions
- not recognizing people or places
- repeated nausea or vomiting
- unusual behavior, increasing confusion, restlessness or agitation
- loss of consciousness, increasing drowsiness, or can't stay awake
- slurred speech, weakness, numbness or poor coordination
- a headache that gets worse and doesn't go away
- one pupil larger than the other, or double vision
- Keep them out for the rest of the day and until a healthcare provider clears them.
- Don't judge severity yourself. Have a healthcare provider evaluate your child.
Added 21 Oct 2026