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Helping Kids Bounce Back: Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury in Children

Feb 5, 2025 | Pediatrics

When your child experiences a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it can feel like everything has shifted—for them and your entire family.  

But with the right care and a strong support system, kids can relearn skills, regain their independence, and take meaningful steps toward recovery. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what TBIs are, how they can affect children, and how therapy can help them overcome challenges. 

What Is a TBI? 

A traumatic brain injury is any injury to the brain that affects its ability to function.  

TBIs in children can result from falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or other trauma. They range in severity from mild to severe: 

  • Mild TBI: This is often referred to as a concussion. While a mild TBI might not always seem serious at first, it’s important to monitor symptoms carefully. 
  • Moderate to Severe TBI: These injuries may involve longer-lasting effects and require more intensive medical care and rehabilitation. 

Regardless of the severity, a TBI can impact various areas of a child’s life, including their ability to think, move, and interact with others. 

How Does a TBI Affect Children? 

Every child’s experience with a TBI is unique.  

Effects can vary based on the severity of the injury, the part of the brain that’s affected, and the child’s age and development.  

Common challenges children may face include: 

    • Cognitive deficits: Difficulty with memory, attention, or problem-solving. 
    • Behavioral changes: Increased frustration, mood swings, or difficulty regulating emotions. 
    • Motor impairments: Challenges with balance, coordination, or overall strength. 

These challenges can be overwhelming for both children and their families, but early intervention through therapy can make a big difference. 

How Physical and Occupational Therapy Can Help 

Physical and Occupational Therapy are essential components of a child’s recovery after a TBI.  

These therapies work hand-in-hand to support a child’s development and help them regain function, independence, and confidence. 

    • Physical Therapy focuses on improving mobility, strength, and balance. For children with a TBI, this can mean helping them walk again, return to sports, or even just move around with greater ease. 
    • Occupational Therapy helps children develop or relearn everyday skills like writing, eating, or dressing themselves. Therapists also address sensory processing, attention, and emotional regulation to support their overall growth. 

A therapist’s approach is child-centered and playful, meeting kids where they are and making therapy as engaging as possible.  

By focusing on strengths, we help your child progress toward their goals in a supportive, caring environment. 

How Can You Support Your Child’s Recovery? 

As a parent or caregiver, your role in your child’s recovery is invaluable. Here are a few ways you can help: 

    • Communicate openly with your child’s therapists and medical team. The more we work together, the better we can meet your child’s needs. 
    • Encourage rest and pacing. Recovery can take time, so it’s important to balance therapy and daily activities with plenty of rest. 
    • Celebrate progress. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a win. 

Remember, recovery from a TBI is a journey, and you’re not alone.  

Therapy is here to provide your child with the tools they need to succeed, and we’re here to support your entire family along the way.

Is your child facing challenges after a traumatic brain injury? 

Recovery takes time, but the right therapy can help your child regain strength, confidence, and independence. Our expert Physical and Occupational Therapists will create a personalized treatment plan that makes progress engaging and effective. 

Treatment is covered by insurance, no referral is needed, and with flexible scheduling and expanded hours across all our clinics, you can find a place and time that work for you. 

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