Amanda’s Fall

Amanda’s Fall

Children need to be supervised when playing in an outer schoolyard. Safety procedures should be readily seen and understood by all the students. But things happen when they are least expected and fun play can turn into a serious event.

Amanda and her friends were playing in the schoolyard when something happened, and she fell and hit her head.

She can hear people talking but cannot answer or respond. School officials called an ambulance and her parents were notified as she was taken to the hospital for evaluation. Understanding that this can happen is why her parents wisely insisted on a prognosis in order to under how to proceed after she she’s discharged.

Author Kelly Darmofal creates a story true to her own life dealing with traumatic Brain Injury which is Amanda’s diagnosis.

Tired and sleepy Amanda and her parents learn that her head injury might create issues in learning and memory in the future. She must deal with having to try harder and in different ways . Trained professionals can help but schools, school nurses , parents and teachers need to understand that a head injury can result in a concussion and steps must be taken right away and can make it better or improved.

Mild traumatic brain injuries are when , “brains are contorted. “ they are fairly common but unfortunately rarely reported. TBI can be serious and as Amanda’s mother reads more, she realizes that the answers are mysterious.

The illustrations are realistic and bring the story and Amanda’s emotions to light. We see the children playing and then witness her fall and the facial expressions tell the story even without the words. Bijan Samaddar is the illustrator who brings life into the story with his colorful illustrations:

Boys and girls can suffer injuries when they play rough and Amanda tells about her friends. At each stage of growth, she might have new problems which explains why records of falls should always be compiled.

Schools and parents need to keep medical files and Amanda shares on page 13 what happens when things get harder and why. So, what else does she share ? Read Her story and learn more.

Resources are amazing as the author shared valuable information for parents and caregivers related to TBI : defining it, causes , signs and symptoms, facts we all need to know tips for coping with TBI and tips for teachers of TBI survivors and other resources.

Author Kelly Bouldin Darmofal includes her title: 101 tips for recovering from Traumatic Brain Injury.

This is an excellent resource for parents, nurses in schools, doctors, students, parents and caregivers which will provide the right protocols when needed if someone has an unfortunate accident or fall and had a TBI. It’s great for teachers and parents to talk with children and students about playing safely and wearing the proper gear for sports. Outstanding story and informative. TBI is something close to home and learning more about what could have been done to prevent it and the valuable resources the author shares which is why this book an important resource that everyone should keep close by.

Fran Lewis: just reviews