How do you let a kid know about his illness?

I have dealt with severe concussions and their aftermath as a school nurse on numerous occasions. I am sure that his parents are very concerned and are cautious about him doing any activities or going to school.

As recommended above, have the parents make sure that they keep the teacher, school nurse, and PE teacher up to date on all restrictions and changes in his medical plan as he recovers.

As a parent, I would sit down and gently tell the child about his diagnosis and restrictions. I would stress that he will need to stick within the parameters set forth by the doctor to recover. Also, he should report any headaches, dizziness, or light sensitivity to his parents, teacher, and school nurse. Depending on his symptoms, he may need additional rest time built into his day.

Children are incredibly adaptable and should be able to handle this diagnosis unless he suffers from anxiety.

From what I have experienced, it is not the diagnosis that is the problem. It is trying to keep a boy to stay within the doctor's restrictions. So the child must be aware that if he pushes the limits, his recovery may be delayed.

I wish them well and a quick and eventful recovery.

I have dealt with severe concussions and their aftermath as a school nurse on numerous occasions. I am sure that his parents are very concerned and are cautious about him doing any activities or going to school.

As recommended above, have the parents make sure that they keep the teacher, school nurse, and PE teacher up to date on all restrictions and changes in his medical plan as he recovers.

As a parent, I would sit down and gently tell the child about his diagnosis and restrictions. I would stress that he will need to stick within the parameters set forth by the doctor to recover. Also, he should report any headaches, dizziness, or light sensitivity to his parents, teacher, and school nurse. Depending on his symptoms, he may need additional rest time built into his day.

Children are incredibly adaptable and should be able to handle this diagnosis unless he suffers from anxiety.

From what I have experienced, it is not the diagnosis that is the problem. It is trying to keep a boy to stay within the doctor's restrictions. So the child must be aware that if he pushes the limits, his recovery may be delayed.

I wish them well and a quick and eventful recovery.

Any traumatic brain injury can have a variety of physical and neurological repercussions. While many brain injuries heal over time, it is still necessary to follow the doctor's instructions to assist in the healing process and prevent any additional damage.

You don't mention the age of the child, but I would suggest that the parents ask the doctor or a counsellor to assist them in explaining the diagnosis to their son. A doctor will be able to explain what has happened in a way the child can understand and will be able to explain to the child why they may need to curtail certain activities.

As parents, your friends will be able to offer the emotional support their son needs while he comes to terms with his diagnosis. I am sure they are also very distraught, and may also benefit from some psychological counselling. If the child is of school-going age, the school nurse and counsellor as well as his teacher should be made aware of his injury so that they can keep an eye out for anything concerning.

Kids are resilient and adaptable and are often able to adapt to change far more quickly than we give them credit for. If we project a calm and reassuring manner, our children feel secure and will trust that we are doing things that are in their best interest. I really hope that you friend's son recovers fully from his injury.