Safety in School and Youth Sports Programs
Safety Questions to Ask & Steps Parents of Youth Athletes Can Take
Sep 7, 2009
Before sending a child to practice, parents need to take responsibility for completely looking into the school or community sports program that interests their child. The quality of a youth sports program can be ascertained by asking a variety of questions with an emphasis on safety policies and procedures. Parents can also personally take specific safety measures to protect a child. Take a look at what questions should be asked and what parents can do to maximize student safety.
Questions to Ask Relating to the Safety of School or Youth Sports Programs
- Does the school or program have clear safety, player, coaching and fan policies in place?
- Has the equipment provided been certified?
- Will first aid be available at all practices and games?
- Has the coach been certified in sports first aid?
- Does the team have a certified athletic trainer?
- Are the athletic facilities checked for safety on a regular basis?
- Does the coach have a written emergency plan in case of accident?
- Does the school/program require background checks for all coaches?
- Will a conditioning program be implemented?
Steps Parents Can Take to Maximize Student Safety
- Prior to playing any sport, schedule a physical exam for the child participating.
- Inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of the child or the safety of others.
- Check that the child has proper fitting equipment that meets national standards and is in good condition.
- Make sure that the child wears protective gear.
- Make sure that the student athlete participates in warm ups, stretching and cool down exercises
- Teach the child the importance of keeping hydrated. Always send water with the child to practice and games.
- Carry a First Aid kit and consider getting certified in First Aid and CPR.
- Provide a balanced diet that meets the additional nutritional needs of an athlete.
- Confirm that those transporting the child to practices and games are fully licensed and insured.
- Attend the team's parent preseason meeting that should outline the program's philosophy and safety procedures.
By following these simple steps and asking the right questions, parents of youth athletes should feel confident that the child will be participating in a safe sports environment. Don't forget that a child's pediatrician or doctor can also be an excellent source of information regarding safety guidelines. The benefits of youth sports are extensive and can serve to help student athletes throughout their lives. As long as safety is kept as a priority by coaches, schools, community programs, parents and athletes themselves, sports programs provide a wonderful opportunity to positively influence the physical development of children.
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