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​Recognizing a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in babies and young children can be more difficult than in adults. Infants and small children are often not able to explain how they feel, such as having a headache, dizziness, or confusion.

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Because of this, parents and caregivers may notice changes in behavior, sleep, or feeding rather than clear physical complaints.

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Signs of a possible brain injury in babies and children may include:

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Changes in feeding or eating

• Refusing to eat or drink

• Difficulty nursing or feeding

• Changes in normal eating habits

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Changes in mood or behavior

• Unusual irritability

• Becoming easily upset or frustrated

• Persistent crying that cannot be comforted

• Appearing unusually sad or withdrawn

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Changes in attention and interaction

• Difficulty focusing on people or objects

• Reduced interest in surroundings

• Less interaction with parents or caregivers

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Changes in sleep patterns

• Sleeping much more than usual

• Difficulty waking up

• Trouble falling asleep or restless sleep

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Loss of interest in activities

• No longer showing interest in favorite toys

• Reduced playfulness or curiosity

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Physical or neurological signs

• Drowsiness or unusual tiredness

• Seizures or convulsions

• Poor coordination or unusual movements

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Trust your instincts as a parent

Parents and caregivers often notice subtle changes in their child’s behavior before anyone else. If a child seems different than usual after a fall, accident, or head injury, it is important to take these signs seriously.

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Early recognition of symptoms can help ensure that a child receives appropriate care and support for healthy brain development and recovery.