Le Bonheur Children's Hospital

Sports Safety

Safe Kids

Children's participation in sports can improve fitness, increase coordination and promote self-discipline. Athletics can also increase a sense of personal satisfaction, accomplishment and self-esteem. However, great interest and growth in organized sports has equated to an increase in sports- and recreation-related injuries.

Nearly three quarters of U.S. households with school-aged children have a least one child who plays organized sports. In 2002, among children ages five to 14 treated in hospital emergency departments:

  • Nearly 188,000 were treated for football-related injuries.
  • More than 76,000 were treated for soccer-related injuries.
  • More than 21,000 were treated for gymnastics-relayed injuries.
  • More that 11,000 were treated for cheerleading-related injuries.
  • More than 2,000 were treated for field hockey-related injuries.
  • More that 300 were treated for rugby-related injuries.

Here are a few more tips for parents to help ensure their kids are properly prepared for sports activities:

Get Ready!

  • Before the season begins, my kids gradually increase their activity level and have regular check-ups with their doctor.
  • My kids understand the basic skills of the sport before they get into the game.
  • My kids drink plenty of fluids before, during and after playing sports and eat a well-balanced diet.
  • My child's coach and athletic trainer have a list of emergency contacts, just in case an emergency occurs.
  • When I carpool, I make sure all the children are properly restrained in my vehicle.

Get Set!

  • My kids warm up and stretch before playing the game.
  • My kids always wear the right, properly fitted protective gear.
  • Field surfaces are inspected prior to play.
  • My kids play under the supervision of a coach a certified athletic trainer.

Go!

 

  • My kids are properly supervised at all times.
  • My kids take regular rest breaks at practice and at the game.
  • My kids do not "play through" an injury.
  • Parents, coaches and players always practice good sportsmanship and play by the rules.

For more information, please call Safe Kids Mid-South, headquartered at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, at (901) 287-6730.


Posted: March 12, 2008 For more information please contact: Susan Helms , 901.287.6730