Concussions in youth sports: what Maui parents should know

Published 2026-11-02

How to spot a possible concussion, when to call 911, why “when in doubt, sit them out” matters, and how the step-by-step return to play works for keiki and teen athletes.

General information, not medical advice. If you think your child has a concussion, get them checked by a doctor or other health care provider. For any danger sign listed below, call 911.

MIL football is in its final weeks and state tournament games are on the calendar this month, so it’s a good time for a refresher on head injuries. Concussions aren’t just a football thing, either. They can happen in volleyball, soccer, basketball, surfing, skating or a tumble on the playground. Here’s what the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics and international sports medicine experts tell families.

What a concussion is

The CDC describes a concussion as a type of traumatic brain injury. It can come from a bump, blow or jolt to the head, and also from a hard hit to the body that makes the head snap back and forth. That quick motion can cause chemical changes in the brain, which is why a child may think, feel, learn, act or sleep differently afterward.

The CDC says most kids feel better within two to four weeks, though some have symptoms that last much longer. A history of earlier concussions, or more severe symptoms right after the injury, raises the chance of a longer recovery.

Signs to watch for

One of the trickiest parts: the CDC notes that signs may not show up right away and can take hours or even days to appear. For school-age keiki and teens, watch for a child who:

• Seems dazed, stunned or confused about what just happened
• Has sudden trouble remembering things or paying attention
• Answers questions more slowly than usual
• Looks clumsy or unsteady on their feet
• Throws up soon after the hit
• Shows changes in mood, behavior or personality

Kids may also say they have a headache, feel dizzy or sick to their stomach, or are bothered by light or noise. You know your child best. If something seems off, trust that.

When to call 911

The CDC lists danger signs that need emergency care right away, including a seizure, not recognizing people or places, vomiting again and again, getting more confused, restless or agitated, or losing consciousness. If you see any of these after a hit to the head or body, call 911 or go straight to the nearest emergency room.

When in doubt, sit them out

The CDC’s advice for a suspected sports concussion is simple: take the athlete out of the game or practice right away, keep them out for the rest of that day, and don’t let them return until a health care provider says it’s OK. Parents and coaches shouldn’t try to judge how bad it is on the sideline. The CDC says athletes who go back too soon, while the brain is still healing, have a greater chance of another concussion.

When you see the doctor, it helps to share how the injury happened, whether your child blacked out and for how long, any memory loss or seizure right after, how many concussions they’ve had before, and any medicines or natural remedies they take.

Recovery is about school and life, too

The American Academy of Pediatrics points out that concussion symptoms often get in the way of school, friends, family life and sports, and can affect a young athlete’s emotional well-being. The AAP says every concussion is different, so care should fit the individual child. It also says the main treatment is cutting back, not necessarily stopping, physical and thinking activities while the brain heals. Let teachers know, and ask the doctor about any short-term help at school.

Getting back in the game, one step at a time

The CDC’s 6-step return to play progression is based on the 2022 international consensus on concussion in sport. An athlete starts only after a health care provider gives the green light, and each step usually takes at least 24 hours:

1. Back to regular activities, like school
2. Light aerobic activity, such as walking or an easy bike ride
3. Moderate activity, like jogging or lighter weight training
4. Hard non-contact work, like sprints and sport drills
5. Full-contact practice
6. Games

If symptoms come back at any step, the CDC says to stop, contact the provider, and once symptoms are gone, start again at the step before. If your child’s school has a certified athletic trainer, work closely with them through this process.

Helmets help, but they’re not magic

The CDC is clear that there’s no such thing as a concussion-proof helmet. A helmet can help protect against serious head injuries when it fits properly, is in good shape, is certified for the sport, is the right one for your child’s age and is worn correctly every time. Even with a helmet, avoiding hits to the head is still the goal.

A quick checklist for families

• Learn the signs, and remember they can show up hours or days later.
• Teach keiki to speak up if they feel “off” after a hit. It isn’t letting the team down.
• If a concussion is possible, sit out right away and stay out until a provider clears them.
• Know the danger signs that mean calling 911.
• Follow the step-by-step return, and go back a step if symptoms return.
• Check helmet fit at the start of every season.

Athletic trainers, coaches or health professionals on Maui with tips for keiki athletes and their families? Send them to us and we may feature them in a future story.

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