Education for Kids

What is a Stroke?

A stroke can also be called a "brain attack."  Stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain stops or is interrupted.  Without blood flow, brain cells do not get enough oxygen and can die.  Stroke has the potential to cause:

• Paralysis - Complete or partial loss of movement
• Aphasia - Loss of speech

BE FAST - Signs of Stroke

According to the National Stroke Association, always remember to BE FAST if you think someone is having a stroke.

Balance - Is the person losing his/her coordination or balance? Is he/she having trouble walking?

Eyes - Is the person having trouble seeing out of one or both eyes?

Face - Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

Arms - Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift down?

Speech - Ask the person to repeat a sentence. Are the words slurred? Is he/she having trouble getting words out?

Time - If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important. Call 9-1-1 and get to the hospital fast. Brain cells are dying.

Helping Prevent Stroke

People can help reduce their chances of having a stroke by:

• Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.
• Exercising regularly.
• Not smoking cigarettes or using drugs; drinking alcohol only in moderation.
• Having regular medical check-ups with the doctor.
• Actively managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart problems.

Test Your Knowledge!

Take this short quiz  by the National Stroke Association that will test your knowledge about stroke.

Other Activities

Below are some other resources from the National Stroke Association that will help you learn more about the brain and stroke.

Brainiac Kids Crossword Puzzle  


Hip Hop Stroke Brain Map 


Brainiac B's Word Find