Five Tips to Prepare Your Kids for a New Sports Season
With the new school year upon us, many students are getting ready to wear their sports uniform and gear so they can start enjoying a new season. Whether kids play sports in school, a recreational league, or on a travel team, being prepared for the season makes it more likely they’ll have fun and succeed without being sidelined by injury or disappointment.
Here are five tips to help your children prepare for a new sports season:
- Get sports season ready. Now is the perfect time to start or expand on a workout plan. Chances are that kids have been physically active during the summer months, but they may not have been doing activities that build strength, flexibility, and stamina for the sport they plan to play. If they need a formal exercise program, ask a gym teacher, coach, or personal trainer for advice. Have them get in a mix of cardio activities, like running or swimming, in addition to strength training. Encourage them to increase what they’re doing gradually so they don’t overdo it.
- Plan for proper nutrition. As a parent, you always want your kids to be healthy, and proper nutrition is an important component of good health. If the unstructured nature of summer has caused kids to develop less-than-healthy eating habits, now is the perfect time to remind them of the importance of good nutrition. PIH Health Family Medicine Specialist, Elisabeth Brown MD tells us, “It doesn’t have to be a lecture on eating healthy—rather, talk about how eating or avoiding certain foods will help them be stronger, more energized, and better at their sport.”
- Make an appointment for a sports physical. Many sports teams require kids to get a sports physical before they start playing, but even if one is not required, this is a good time of year for kids to get an annual check-up with their pediatrician or primary care doctor. PIH Health Urgent Care Centers offer sports physicals every day, between 10 am and 8 pm. You don’t need an appointment, just walk in. Check locations at PIHHealth.org/UCC
- Check their gear. Unless all equipment will be supplied by the school or team, it’s a good idea to make sure your kids have everything they need to play. Check that all equipment is in good condition, still fits properly and is safe to use. Also ask if any part of the uniform needs to be purchased, such as socks, shoes/cleats or hats/helmets, so your child will have what they need on day one.
- Discuss goals and expectations. Some kids can’t wait for a new sports season to start while others may be a bit apprehensive about what to expect. Spend time talking to kids about how they feel, what they’re most excited about, and what concerns them. Set goals and ground rules if necessary, such as not letting sports interfere with schoolwork. Dr. Brown also says, “Keeping the lines of communication open makes it easier for kids to manage expectations and jump over any hurdles they may face. Parents and guardians should offer themselves as resources to help problem solve and figure out best ways to keep the stress of school and sports at bay.”
To find a doctor or learn more about our services, visit PIHHealth.org
