A new school year means after school sports. Extracurriculars not only look great on college applications, they also promote good social development and a healthy, active lifestyle. Participation in sports comes with some risk, though, and it’s always best to be prepared for common injuries, whether you’re a coach or a parent cheerleading from the sidelines.
Preventing Injuries
Even during practice, wearing protective gear is essential to helping prevent injuries. Helmets, goggles, and pads may look silly to kids, but it can mean the difference between a bump in the head or a concussion.
Carefully check equipment before playing with it to ensure it is functioning properly and will not cause injury. Stretching and properly preparing for exercise is also a good idea to prevent muscle strains and sprains.
Treating Small Injuries with First Aid
As a parent of an active child, it’s a good idea to have a first aid kit on hand for just-in-case circumstances. Your kit should include at least:
- Rubbing alcohol or antiseptic wash
- banaids and butterfly bandages
- antibiotic ointment
- ice pack
- gauze
- medical tape
- scissors
- nose drops
- cotton balls
- eye pads
- children’s pain relievers
If anyone (child or adult) seems to not be able to hear, see, breath, or maintain balance, if he or she appears disorientated or cannot speak, is bleeding profusely, or has excessive bruising, it’s best to seek medical attention immediately by calling 911. If a head or neck injury is possible, do not move the victim or remove protective gear.
