Has Your Child Suffered A Traumatic Brain Injury? How To Aid In At-Home Recovery

Health & Medical Blog

If your child is recovering from a traumatic brain injury, they're going to be dealing with the aftermath for many years, and so will you. Knowing that your child is going to be released from the hospital following their traumatic brain injury is exciting. It can also be stressful and worrisome, especially when you realize that there won't be a complete medical staff available to help keep your child safe. Here are some simple tips that will help you help your child while they adjust to life after their injury.

Ensure Plenty of Rest

When your child comes home from the hospital, they may look well. However, their brain will still be recovering for quite some time. Because of that, your child may tire out and become fatigued more often and more quickly than they did before. To ensure a safe recovery, it's crucial that you ensure plenty of rest for your child. Begin by having your child rest for at least 15 minutes out of each hour. That 15-minute rest will give them some time to be still and regroup. It's also important that you ensure at least a couple full naps throughout the day.

Provide Non-Screen Activities

While your child is recovering from a traumatic brain injury, it's important that you limit screen time activities. Electronic devices can stimulate the brain too much, especially after a TBI. During the recovery, provide your child with plenty of fun, non-screen activities, such as listening to music, painting, or drawing. If your child is young, spend time reading to them. These non-screen time activities will help enhance your child's recovery. A therapist who offers traumatic brain injury therapy may help your child with similar activities.

Make Your Child's Room a Safe Space

There may be times when your child feels overwhelmed or confused following their TBI. This is to be expected, especially if there were significant changes in their physical or mental abilities as a result of their injuries. You can help them through the recovery process by making their room a safe space. Fill your child's room with plenty of soft pillows, a comfortable chair, and access to soothing music. This will ensure that your child has a place to go when they're feeling overwhelmed.

Find Non-Contact Forms of Play for Your Child

If your child was physically active prior to the injury, they may want to get out and get active right away. However, physical activity needs to be avoided while your child is recovering from a traumatic brain injury. Until their doctor gives the go ahead, find non-contact forms of play for your child to participate in.

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26 July 2018