CDC Heads Up Rocket Blades

This app is a game for children aged 6 to 8 years to learn about the signs and symptoms of concussion and what to do if they hit their head.

Rocket Blades By Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Features
  • Game
  • Designed for children 6–8 years old
  • Education and information

Get the app:


 

Clinical review



Read a clinical review of this app.

Security and privacy  Does the app:
  • collect medical information? No
  • require a login? No
  • have password protection? No
  • have a privacy policy? Yes
  • require internet access? No
Read more safety tips around health apps.
Cost Free

What does the app do?

Rocket Blades is a fun game developed for young children to educate them about concussion injury and safety. This app aims to teach children about concussion in an enjoyable, entertaining game. By playing the game, children learn the different ways your brain can get hurt during sports activities, how important it is to tell a coach, parent or other adult when an injury occurs, and the importance of taking time to rest and recover if they have a concussion. 

When players are injured the game simulates concussion symptoms, making the screen blurry and play more challenging. Children are prompted to tell a grown-up when a player is injured and swap injured players out for a healthy teammate. At the end of each level, a doctor checks out all the injured players to make sure their brains are rested and recharged, and they are healthy to race. 

For the complete app description, go to iTunes(external link) and the app website(external link).

PROS CONS 

✔ Very simple, clear, repetitive messages that children can understand.

✔ Messages provided are very important with regards to treatment of concussion.

✘ Children may be bored quickly with this game and its repetitive messages.

✘ More directed at young children under 10; it won't appeal to older children.

Privacy and security

The app does not collect personal, identifiable data. A privacy policy is available and there are no concerns about it.

Read more about things you can do to improve your safety and security when using apps.

Review details

  • April 2021, Version 1.1.1, Apple iOS
  • November 2018, Version 1.0, Android 

Learn more

Daugherty J, Miles I, Sarmiento K, et al. A description and evaluation of the concussion education application HEADS UP Rocket Blades(external link) Health Promot Pract. 2018 Mar 1:1524839918764670.

Resources

Related topics

Consumer guide: how to choose a health app
Clinicians guide: how to choose a health app
Concussion apps
Concussion
NZ Health App Library

App developer: If you are the developer and would like to provide updated information about this app, please email the app library manager at hello@healthify.nz

Disclaimer: Healthify’s app library is a free consumer service to help you decide whether a health app would be suitable for you. Our review process is independent. We have no relationship with the app developers or companies and no responsibility for the service they provide. This means that if you have an issue with one of the apps we have reviewed, you will need to contact the app developer or company directly.

Data security and privacy information


Staying safe online
Netsafe, NZ, 2020

Credits: Healthify Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Sarah Woodward, Physiotherapist, Bay of Plenty

Last reviewed:

Page last updated: