As a parent I feel like I am in a constant balancing act. I want to provide my kids with the opportunity to learn, grow and live to their full potential. And I feel that leading a healthy, physically active lifestyle is part of that. So our kids participate in a number of sports and recreational activities. But, I also want to keep them safe, secure and injury free. I really do not enjoy trips to the emergency room!
Unfortunately, sport related injuries to kids are on the rise. Doctors point to several reasons for recent increases in injury rates: greater recognition of some types of injuries (like concussions), year-round training for athletes and more intense training at younger ages.
According to a Sports Safety fact sheet provided by SafeKids Greater Des Moines and Blank Children’s Hospital more than 3.5 million kids ages 14 and younger suffer from sports-and-recreation related injuries each year. Most organized injures (62%) occur during practice instead of games. Despite this fact, parents often do not take the same safety precautions during their child’s practice as they would for a game.
Organized sports boost fitness and teach important skills like cooperation, perseverance and team building. Fear of injury shouldn’t keep kids from participating. Help ensure that your growing athlete stays on the field and out of the emergency room by taking the right safety precautions.
- Wear appropriate safety equipment during games and practice. And, make sure that it fits and is worn properly.
- Check that playing facilities and conditions are safe. Pay attention to the weather to make sure that players are hydrated and appropriately dressed.
- Make sure coaches are enforcing safety rules and are providing proper supervision.
- Focus on the fun aspects of the activity. Kids trying to please parents will push themselves and will be less likely to take a break if they are in pain or fatigued.
- Proper stretching and warm-up exercises should be a part of practice and games.
- Do not allow an injured child to re-enter a game or resume activity until an injury is properly healed.
- Take breaks throughout the year. Young athletes who train year round are more prone to injury.
- Be a good role model. Communicate positive safety messages, wear proper equipment yourself and follow the rules.
What are your tips for injury free kids participating in sports and recreational activities?
