April is Youth Sports Safety Month
Why Focus on Youth Sports?
About 1.24 million kids receive emergency room care for sports-related injuries each year in the U.S. That’s 3,400 kids each day!
About 90% of student athletes say they’ve been injured while playing a sport.
Sports Safety
Taking part in sports and recreation activities is an important part of a healthy, physically active lifestyle for kids. But injuries can, and do, occur.
Thankfully, there are steps that parents can take to help make sure kids stay safe on the field, the court, or wherever they play or participate in sports and recreation activities. Thanks to safekids.org for this list!
Before playing organized sports, make sure young athletes receive a pre-participation physical exam by a doctor.
Bring a water bottle to practice and games. Encourage children to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Stretch! Make sure there is time set aside before every practice and game for athletes to warm up properly.
Off-season is important! It is recommended that kids get 10 consecutive weeks of rest from any one sport every year.
Coaches should be certified in first aid and CPR. They should also learn the signs and symptoms of a concussion.
Allow time for children to gradually adjust to hot or humid environments to prevent heat-related injuries or illness.
Youth Sports Culture – Facts you Should Know
