WHAT IF MY CHILD IS INJURED PLAYING SOCCER?

Unfortunately many children do become injured while playing soccer either at practice or at games. By taking preventive measures, however, parents and coaches can ensure that many types of injuries caused by carelessness or inattention will not occur.

First, as a parent, you can talk with your child’s coach about an “emergency plan” that he or she may have in place. Make sure that either the coach or one of the assistants is certified in first aid and/or CPR. Most local YMCAs or community colleges offer inexpensive courses in first aid. Always have access to an emergency number, either through a cell phone or a nearby pay phone.

If your child has any preexisting medical conditions or allergies to medications, plants, insects, or foods, make sure your coach is aware of this as well. Be sure that the coach has a stocked first-aid kit that he or she brings to all practices and games. As a parent, talk with your child about the importance of listening at practice to learn the proper skills for playing soccer so he or she will not try a potentially dangerous move on the soccer field. Always inspect your child’s equipment (especially shoes) to be sure that they are in top condition; and do not hesitate to take a tour around your child’s practice or game field to be sure that there are no gaping holes or hazardous objects around that could cause a sprained ankle or worse.

Teach your child about proper conditioning, i.e. stretching, warm-up, and cool-downs. Whether it is a cool or hot day, it is always important to send your child to practice or games with plenty of water and washcloths to dip in the cold water.

In colder weather, make sure your child has the correct gear to stay warm outdoors, including a hat, gloves, long-sleeved shirt to go under a jersey, and long pants to go under uniform shorts.