When can my child go back to football after a concussion?

Only when a healthcare provider clears them. Under CDC HEADS UP guidance, a child with a suspected concussion stays out of sports the day of the injury and until a healthcare provider says it's OK to return. Return to sports is a medical decision, usually done in gradual steps.

To help the provider and your child:

• Tell the provider how the injury happened and how hard the hit was, whether your child lost consciousness, had memory loss or seizures, any previous concussions, and any medicines or natural remedies they take.
• Schedule a follow-up with your child's regular provider. If symptoms last more than 2 to 4 weeks, see a specialist in brain injury.
• Offer emotional support: frustration, sadness and feeling left out are common while kids sit out.

Let the coach know about the injury and any clearance, so the team can watch for symptoms coming back.