What It Means: A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a brain injury caused by an accident, fall, or other blow to the head that changes how a child thinks, remembers, behaves, or learns. The effects can be mild or severe and may appear right away or over time.
TBI can affect a child’s ability to focus, speak, move, handle emotions, or complete schoolwork the way they used to. How It Might Look in Children:
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things
- Changes in personality or mood
- Difficulty with speech or communication
- Slower movement or coordination
- Frustration, confusion, or emotional ups and downs - Challenges returning to school after a head injury
**How the School Can Help:** - Extra support through an IEP or 504 Plan - Adjusted workload and frequent breaks - Speech, occupational, or physical therapy - Behavior and emotional support services - Coordination with doctors and caregivers during recovery
**How I Can Support You:** - Help with the transition back to school after an injury - Support during IEP meetings and team planning - Observation and suggestions for learning and behavior needs - Counseling to support emotional recovery and confidence - Help the school understand the impact of the injury
> “Healing takes time, support, and compassion. Your child is more than their injury — they are still growing and full of potential.”
**If your child has had a brain injury and needs help at school, call or text Laurie at 580–302–0136. You don’t have to figure it out alone.**