As kids return to school, they also return to football fields, gyms and tracks, highlighting once again the need for proper sports safety and training preparation. No matter a child’s age, parents or caregivers should always play an active role to make sure their children have a safe and fun experience.
This two-part blog series will present tips for parents of active children. Part One will address injury prevention. Part Two will discuss the need for the proper food to fuel a child athlete. Whether your son or daughter plays peewee football, loves cheerleading or can’t wait to kick the soccer ball, this information will help ensure they enjoy their favorite activity while minimizing risk.
Injury Prevention
Bumps, cuts and bruises are part of being a student athlete. As kids age and become increasingly more active in organized sports, the potential for more serious injuries arises.
Sports-related injuries in children are more common than you might think. According to statistics, children ages 5 to 14 account for approximately 40 percent of all sports-related injuries. Fortunately, your child doesn’t have to become part of this statistic. Consider these helpful hints before your child begins their sport season:
- Before beginning an activity, kids should have a physical examination conducted by their pediatrician or family doctor. The “physical” will establish whether your child can physically participate in a sport.
- Properly-fitted equipment is essential. Make sure your child has everything he or she needs to participate in a sport. Ask a coach for a checklist of necessary items, from mouth guards to pads to helmets. These items should fit properly to protect your child.
- The condition of the playing surface or field impacts a child’s health, as well. Check for holes, ruts or uneven surfaces in the field, floor or turf on which your child practices or competes. Activities such as running should occur on surfaces with more give to them – a track or a wooden basketball court – as opposed to concrete.
- Whether your child is five years old or 15, you should continue to supervise their activities. Similarly, check to make sure coaches and other supervising adults are qualified to do so and are committed to safety.
- Kids need rest and water breaks during practices and competitions. A coach with an over-demanding training regimen puts athletes in danger of injury or dehydration. Athletics should promote teamwork, discipline and physical fitness. Yelling, threatening or punishing a child for not doing well places additional stress on a child, increasing chance for injury.
- Finally, make sure your child is properly matched and prepared to participate in a sport. You wouldn’t send a child who can’t swim into deep water. Similarly, ask yourself if your child is physically and emotionally ready for their sport.