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School is back in session, and many children will once again engage in extracurricular activities, including youth sports. Sports provide children with many valuable social, emotional, and physical benefits. However, injuries or exhaustion can sideline them and ruin the season. As parents and coaches, there are straightforward steps we can take to minimize preventable injuries and help our kids thrive on the field.
Get a Pre-Participation Physical Exam
Before participating in organized sports, ensure your child has a physical exam conducted by a healthcare professional. This exam includes a thorough medical history that helps identify potential health problems that might interfere with their performance. Ideally this should take place at least six weeks before the season begins to allow enough time to address any possible concerns.
Make sure you share important information like your pediatrician’s contact information, medication, and allergies with all coaches. Meet with the coaches before the first practice to discuss any medical conditions, such as asthma, that may need special attention.
Warm Up and Stretch
Coaches should allocate time for a proper warm-up before each practice and game. Athletes should engage in about 10 minutes of light activity, such as jogging, followed by stretching all major muscle groups for 20 to 30 seconds each. This routine helps release muscle tension and reduces the risk of sports-related injuries, such as strains or tears.
Stay Hydrated
Understanding the signs of dehydration and heat-related illnesses is crucial. Ensure athletes bring a water bottle to practice and games, and encourage them to stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after physical activity. Aim for fluid intake 30 minutes before starting and every 15-20 minutes during the activity. Coaches should implement regular water breaks to ensure athletes stay hydrated.
Use Proper Sports Gear
Appropriate and well-fitted sports gear is essential for preventing injuries. Ensure athletes are equipped with the correct gear, such as helmets, shin guards, mouth guards, ankle braces, and proper footwear. Don't forget sunscreen for outdoor sports.
Recognize and Address Concussions
Learn to identify the signs and symptoms of a concussion, which is crucial for coaches, parents, and athletes. If a concussion is suspected, your child should be removed from play and not return until cleared by a medical professional. When in doubt, it's best to keep them out of play.
Prioritize Rest
To prevent overuse injuries, athletes need breaks during practices and games. Encourage them to report any pain, injury, or illness to a coach, parent, or other trusted adult. It's important for athletes to take at least one or two days off per week from the same sport to allow their bodies to recover.
Be a Prepared Coach
Coaches should establish clear safety guidelines for practices and games, including hydration breaks, sitting out if injured, and proper warm-ups. Consider becoming certified in first aid and CPR, and always have a well-stocked first aid kit available. Coaches can also enhance their knowledge with sports safety training from reputable organizations.
As a parent, learn how to keep your child healthy and injury-free by participating in local sports safety clinics.
Ensuring your child’s love of sports and physical activity is easier when everyone is prepared and remembers to always put safety first!
For more information on sports safety visit Safe Kids Worldwide.
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