Fall is the time of year when football gears up for the season. Kids everywhere have likely been practicing, and now it's game time. Help keep your child safe.
Football season is gearing up for the NFL as well as thousands of leagues all over the nation for kids. It's an exciting game, but it is also a worrisome pursuit for some moms. Kids do get injured while playing football, but if they have a love for the game, injuries don't slow them down. Here are some practical tips for helping to keep your tween safe.
Football Equipment
Of course football equipment is required by sponsored leagues and schools. Making sure that the equipment fits your child appropriately is of utmost importance. If you want to buy used equipment, be sure to have your child fitted for the right size and then go bargain-hunting.
Here is a list of necessary equipment and equipment that may help prevent injuries.
- Helmet with a face mask
- Protective pads for thighs and hips (can come as a girdle)
- Shoulder pads
- Padded shirt
- Cleats
- Gloves
- Mouth guard
- Leg and ankle braces
- Other equipment that may be suggested by your child's coach
Flag football equipment is not as cumbersome as what is required for recreational and school leagues. The list of flag football equipment includes:
- Mouth guard
- Cleats
- Flag belt
- Possibly some head gear
Warm Up Exercises
Warming up before practice and a game is essential to help prevent injuries. It gets muscles ready for the rigorous exercise they are about to receive during a game. Here are some benefits of warming up.
- Raises body temperature
- Increases metabolic rate
- Increases heart and respiratory rate
Most football players will do warm up exercises by running, stretching, and performing drills. You can find some good leg stretching exercises below. A good warm up program should last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.
Sit Out When Already Injured
If your child has sustained an injury while playing football, let him sit out for a period of time depending on how long the coach and/or family doctor feel is necessary to promote proper healing. Playing with an injury may make matters worse, and could potentially cause an injury that lasts your child's lifetime.
The most common injuries that occur in football leagues for kids are:
- Bruises
- Broken bones
- Scratches
Let your child know to tell you when he is injured. Sometimes kids will want to keep an injury to himself for fear of not being able to play. He needs to know the consequences of playing with an injury and that you need to know if something happens.
Know the Game Rules
Kids should listen to their coach at all times. Football rules can be complex and it is important to know the rules in order to help the team and play safe. Make sure your child understands the rules of the game, what is expected of his position, and ask questions if there is any misunderstanding or confusion.
Most of all, encourage your child to have fun!
