Concussion Checklist for Parents

Before the season

• Confirm your athlete has a current baseline test on file
• Ask the athletic trainer or coach how concussions are managed
• Know who to call — athletic trainer, sports medicine physician, ER
• Review the CDC Heads Up concussion signs with your athlete

On game day

• Make sure your athlete is well rested and hydrated
• Watch for hits to the head or body with force transmitted to the head
• Trust the athletic trainer’s judgment if they remove your athlete from play

If you suspect a concussion

• Remove from play immediately — “when in doubt, sit them out”
• Seek evaluation from a qualified clinician within 24 hours
• Share the athlete’s baseline with the clinician
• Watch for red flags: repeated vomiting, worsening headache, confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness — these are emergency signs

During recovery

• Follow the clinician’s specific plan — not a generic protocol
• Ease back into screens, schoolwork, and physical activity gradually
• Communicate with the school about temporary academic accommodations
• Do not return to play until a clinician has given formal clearance

Before returning to play

• Complete the graduated return-to-play protocol under clinician supervision
• Re-baseline after recovery
• Talk with your athlete about when to self-report symptoms