Youth Sports Safety

While participation in sports is good for a child’s confidence, health and self-esteem, it can also lead to injury. April is National Youth Sports Safety Month. Every year, approximately 11 to 13 million children are treated for sports-related injuries, but many of these can be prevented by taking certain precautions.

• Before they begin participating in a sport, take your child for a physical exam.
• Click here for the IHSAA Sports Physical.
• Make sure your child always wears the appropriate safety gear.
• Flexibility can help prevent injuries. At both practices and competitions, emphasize the importance of warming up and stretching. 
• At each event, always check to see if first aid is available.
• To prevent ankle sprains, make sure your child’s footwear fits well.
• Remind your child to take breaks and drink plenty of fluids.

Following these tips can help reduce your child’s likelihood of injury, but children who participate in sports are not just at risk physically. Emotional abuse can occur when a child is forced to participate and is yelled at or ignored for not playing well. Not placing too much importance on winning can help keep childhood athletics fun for everyone.

For more information, visit The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation Web site.