Sport Safety 101
FOR PARENTSSports are great for kids, but too many kids are stuck on the sidelines because of an injury. Our research shows an alarming number of athletes are hiding injuries to stay in the game, getting injured as a result of a dirty play, or going back in the game right after they’ve had a concussion. Most sports injuries can be prevented with smart habits and good training for players, coaches and parents. Sports Safety 101 videos teach these skills so we can change the culture of youth sports, and help young athletes stay in the game.
Participation in sports offers tremendous social, emotional and physical benefits for children. We know that one of the worst things for kids is being on the sidelines with an injury. As parents and coaches, there are simple things we can do to help reduce preventable injuries – so our kids can continue playing the games they love.
The Hard Facts
In 2013, more than 1.24 million children ages 19 and under were seen in emergency departments for injuries related to 14 commonly played sports.
Top Tips
- Before playing organized sports, make sure your child receives a pre-participation physical exam, or PPE, performed by a doctor, or a nurse practitioner or qualified clinician under the supervision of a physician. Whomever performs the exam, the same practices should be followed including the need for a medical history.
- Bring a water bottle to practice and games. Encourage children to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during and after play.
- Stretching before practice and games can release muscle tension and help prevent sports-related injuries, such as muscle tears or sprains. Make sure there is time set aside before every practice and game for athletes to warm up properly.
- Take time off from one sport to prevent overuse injuries. It is an opportunity to get stronger and develop skills learned in another sport.
- It’s also a good idea for coaches to get certified in first aid and CPR, learn the signs and symptoms of a concussion and help avoid overuse injury by resting players during practices and games.
Download Basic Car Seat Safety Checklist
You can also view sports safety video resources.
Related Classes
When & Where
Port St. Lucie
Sport Safety 101
Courses Address
February 25, 2015
from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM (EST)
Ronda Cerulli is a Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Lead Instructor and is Red Crossed Certified as a Basic...
Ronda Cerulli
