Principles for return to learn after concussion

Abstract

There is a rapidly growing knowledge base on concussion, particularly regarding what is now understood to be multiple injury pathways and recovery trajectories. While resolution of symptoms is most often complete within 2 weeks, recovery can take longer, especially in children and adolescents. There is growing attention to return to learn but no consensus yet or accepted guidelines. We have proposed a set of principles, a graduated return to learn protocol, and a set of core academic accommodations that is informed by the broader concussion literature as well as the work of others who have written on this topic. The evidence base remains limited in this area but the time may be ripe for an organisation such as the National Collaborative on Children's Brain Injury, which is comprised of leading paediatric brain injury experts from medical and academic communities, to form a consensus for return to learn after concussion.