By: Shanna McGinnis, MD
Participating in sports offers children the opportunity to develop in several areas – physical fitness, teamwork, time management, conflict resolution, and many more. For some, sports can eventually be a means to help pay for college. However, it is important that children and their parents ensure the experience is a positive one by playing smart.
As organized sports for kids become more popular and more competitive, there is increasing pressure to sign little ones up as early as two years old to participate on teams. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most children do not achieve the attention span, balance, and visual tracking skills to play team sports until age 6. That does not mean they cannot learn some basic techniques, develop friendships, and have lots of fun before that age. Still, do not be surprised when the only goal your child scores during his first season of soccer is for the opposing team. (That’s okay, Mason. You are still mom’s MVP.) Consider your child’s physical and social maturity level prior to starting a sport and maintain proper perspective as a parent.
Another consideration in sports is proper protective equipment. Of course, this will vary from sport to sport, but ask coaches and officials about the most up-to-date recommendations. Some organizations, such as Little League Baseball, have equipment checklists with detailed descriptions on their websites. Ensure that the equipment fits properly from one season to the next as kids can outgrow things quickly. Also be sure that second-hand equipment, even if from an older sibling, is still in adequate condition to provide protection.
Another important way to prevent injury in sports is to beware of overuse. Last year, the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine issued a position statement on overuse injuries. By definition, overuse injuries occur due to repetitive stress on muscles, bones, and other soft tissues without proper rest. There is ongoing research into the risk factors that lead to overuse injuries. Although more information is needed, some of the likely risk factors include previous injury, adolescent growth spurt, poor-fitting equipment, and overscheduling. As a result, certain measures can be taken to prevent injury.
First, children and adolescents with previous injuries should seek medical attention and follow the recommendations regarding rest, physical therapy, and appropriate time to return to play. It is frustrating to be sidelined, but it is important to heal so subsequent injuries do not occur. Next, preseason conditioning helps to decrease injury rates. In addition, it will likely help the athlete improve performance come competition time. As mentioned previously, protective equipment should be used to prevent injury, but should fit well so it does not modify biomechanics. There is some limited information relating ill-fitting equipment to injury. Finally, parents and coaches should set weekly and annual limits on participation, especially for single sports. Some organizations have specific guidelines for this. Become informed about age-appropriate and sport-specific limits for your child.
Burnout is a phenomenon that is not often considered when discussing sports, but occurs when an athlete decides to no longer participate in a sport they previously enjoyed. This is most likely to occur when children specialize in a sport by participating in intensive year-round training. Not all kids who choose to no longer participate in a sport do so because of burnout. Some simply choose to pursue other activities or focus more on academics. It is important for parents to help children balance priorities and manage time.
Sports are an important part of childhood. Boosting self-esteem, forming friendships, and staying physically fit are all benefits of team sports. Ensure that the proper precautions are taken to prevent injuries, avoid burnout, and make the experience positive. Have fun and play smart, Owensboro!