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Traumatic brain injury

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Under IDEA, traumatic brain injury is an acquired brain injury caused by external physical force that adversely affects a student's educational performance.

Topic: Disability categories and conditions

In plain terms

TBI can affect thinking, memory, attention, reasoning, language, sensory and motor skills, behavior and processing speed. The IDEA category does not include brain injuries present at birth or caused by birth trauma, or degenerative conditions. Needs can change quickly during recovery, and fatigue and headaches are common.

How it shows up in an IEP

Because recovery changes things, IEPs for TBI are often reviewed more often than once a year. Goals frequently address working memory strategies, organization, processing time and gradual return to full workload, with close family communication.

Example

After a concussion with lasting effects, a ninth grader returns with a shortened day. A goal targets using a checklist to record homework in each class, reviewed weekly as the schedule expands.

The rule

Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.8(c)(12).

Related terms

  • Other health impairmentOther health impairment is an IDEA category for health problems that limit strength, energy or alertness and adversely affect educational performance.
  • AccommodationAn accommodation changes how a student learns or shows learning, without changing what the student is expected to learn.
  • Self-regulationSelf-regulation is the ability to manage one's energy, emotions, attention and behavior to fit the situation and reach goals.
  • Reevaluation (triennial)A reevaluation is a new look at a student's needs and eligibility, required at least every three years unless the parent and school agree it is not needed.

On IEP Atlas

This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.