A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a traumatic blow, bump or jolt to the head. It causes a rapid movement of the brain within the skull which can severely damage brain cells. Children and babies have thinner skulls than mature adults and are more susceptible to serious injury from a concussion.

There are several measures that parents can take to ensure the safety of their children of any age and protect them from the debilitating and sometimes devastating effects of a concussion.

Playground Safety

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) offers sound advice to parents for ensuring the safety of their children in playgrounds. Kids love playgrounds where they can explore their climbing abilities or test their physical limits while having fun. However, it is vital that parents ensure that the playground is safe before allowing a child to use it.

Playground equipment should be age-appropriate and have guardrails to prevent or break falls. The equipment should be made of a suitable material or padded to minimize injuries to children. Soft material should be located underneath equipment to cushion falls. Check the playground area for any obstacle that could trip a child

Helmet Safety

Although no helmet is completely concussion proof, it does serve to substantially reduce the risks of concussion or other brain trauma. To be effective, a helmet should fit a child’s head properly, be well looked after and worn consistently.

Helmets are not only necessary when riding a bicycle or motorbike, but they also prevent concussions for children participating in many sports like baseball, football, hockey, skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, and horse riding. In all cases, a helmet should be age appropriate and preferably for use.

Car Safety Seats and Seat Belts for Children

The CDCP gives valuable advice on ensuring the safety of children in car rides. All children riding in cars should use age-appropriate safety equipment. The center recommends:

Safety in the Home

Infants and small children can be prevented from suffering concussion by childproofing a home. Infants who are learning to walk are especially vulnerable because they’re not steady on their feet.

Being naturally inquisitive, toddlers will grab and reach for anything that takes their fancy. These antics often result in spills and falls which could result in a concussion. Ensure that dangerous items are out of reach hazardous areas of the home are not accessible to infants. Ideally, a safe play and home area should be provided for them.