Whether it’s a ski day, soccer game, or bike ride around the block, protecting young brains starts long before an injury happens. Prevention is the most powerful tool we have — and with the right education, equipment, and habits, we can help kids and teens play hard and stay safe.

At Save A Brain, we believe that every athlete — at every level — deserves to understand how to protect their brain. Here’s how parents, coaches, and young athletes can work together to prevent concussions and build lifelong brain health.

1. Gear Up: The Power of Proper Helmet Use

Wearing the right helmet — and wearing it correctly — is one of the simplest ways to prevent serious brain injuries.

Choose the right helmet for the activity.
A ski helmet isn’t designed for biking, and a skate helmet won’t protect you on the slopes. Each helmet is tested for different impact types, so always make sure it’s sport-specific.

Fit is everything.

A helmet should be snug but comfortable — not too tight, not too loose. Remember the 2-2-2 rule:

2 fingers above the eyebrows
2 fingers below the chin strap
2 fingers between the straps under your ears

Replace helmets after any hard impact or every 5 years.
Even small cracks or unseen internal damage can reduce protection. Helmets are designed to absorb one big hit — after that, it’s time for a new one.

Bottom line: A helmet isn’t just gear — it’s a commitment to safety.

2. Educate Early: Know the Signs of a Concussion

Concussions can happen even when a helmet is worn. That’s why education is just as important as protection.

Teach kids and teens to recognize the early signs of a concussion:

Headache or “pressure” in the head
Dizziness or balance issues
Blurred vision or confusion
Nausea or vomiting
Trouble concentrating or remembering

If any of these appear after a fall, hit, or collision — stop playing immediately and tell a coach, parent, or athletic trainer. Returning to play too soon increases the risk of further injury and longer recovery.

When in doubt, sit it out. One game isn’t worth risking your brain.

3. Warm Up, Stay Strong, and Rest Smart

Physical conditioning and recovery play a huge role in youth sports safety and concussion prevention.

Build neck and core strength: Strong neck muscles help absorb impact forces and stabilize the head during movement.

Practice balance and coordination: Activities like yoga or agility drills can improve reaction time and reduce risky falls.

Prioritize rest: Fatigue increases reaction time and risk of collision. Make sure young athletes get adequate sleep and recovery days between practices or competitions.

4. Create a “Brain-Safe” Culture

Prevention doesn’t just happen in helmets and drills — it happens in team culture. Coaches, parents, and teammates can make a huge difference by encouraging honesty and empathy around brain injuries.

Normalize talking about head impacts and mental health.
Reward players who speak up about symptoms.
Never pressure an athlete to “shake it off” or “play through it.”
Model brain safety by wearing helmets and taking recovery seriously.

When young athletes see that their health is valued more than their performance, they’re empowered to protect themselves and others.

5. Think Beyond the Game

Brain protection extends beyond the field, mountain, or skatepark.
Encourage everyday habits that promote lifelong brain health:

Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods that support brain function.
Limit screen time and practice mindfulness to reduce stress.
Keep learning and challenging your brain — it’s a muscle, too!

Final Thoughts

Concussion prevention for athletes starts with awareness, equipment, and action.

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or young athlete — you play a role in building a safer sports culture.

Prevention Tips for Kids, Teens & Athletes