Should I let a Child Who Hit Their Head Sleep?
- Simon Francis
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Should I Let a Child Who Hit Their Head Sleep?
It’s one of the most common and worrying questions parents and carers ask after a child bumps their head: “Can I let them go to sleep?”
Let’s clear up the confusion with some facts, expert advice, and practical steps you can take to keep your child safe.
Head Injuries in Children – When to Worry
Children are naturally active, and bumps and knocks to the head are part of growing up. Most minor head injuries — like a bump on the forehead from tripping or falling — can be treated at home with rest and observation.
However, a head injury can sometimes lead to a concussion or more serious trauma. This is why monitoring your child in the hours after an injury is critical.
So, Can a Child Sleep After Hitting Their Head?
Yes – but only if they’re well and have no signs of serious injury.
Contrary to popular myths, you don’t need to keep a child awake if they’re tired and showing no worrying symptoms.
If a child is:
Alert
Speaking normally
Recognising people
Not vomiting
Not showing signs of confusion or slurred speech
…then it’s usually safe to let them sleep.
But…
You MUST Get Medical Help If They Show Any of These Signs:
Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
Drowsiness that’s unusual or hard to wake
Repeated vomiting
Seizures or twitching
Unequal pupil size
Slurred speech
Confusion or memory loss
Bleeding from the ears or nose
Large swelling or soft spot on the head (especially in infants)
📞 Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if any of the above occur.
How to Monitor a Sleeping Child After a Head Bump
If your child is sleeping after a minor head bump:
Keep checking up on them
Look for abnormal breathing, difficulty waking, or twitching.
Gently wake them for a response — a few words or eye movement is enough.
If they’re hard to rouse, seek medical help immediately.
What NHS and First Aid Guidance Say
The NHS says:
“It is a myth that a child must not be allowed to sleep after a head injury. If they are alert and show no symptoms, they can sleep, but should be checked regularly.”
Final Word: Trust Your Instincts
You know your child best. If something doesn’t seem right — even if symptoms are subtle — don’t hesitate to call 111 or speak to a doctor.
Should I Let a Child Who Hit Their Head Sleep? When in doubt, it’s always better to be safe.
🧠 Need First Aid Training? Understanding how to spot signs of concussion and other injuries is vital. Join a certified Paediatric First Aid course with Dynamo Training Solutions and build the confidence to respond in any emergency.
