Preventing Injury
Parents are responsible for taking the necessary precautions to prevent injury to their child while engaging in physical activity. It is important to educate children in safety measures to minimise the risk of injury. Lead by example by wearing a helmet when bike riding and wearing a hat when walking. However, it is important to remember that children cannot anticipate injuries or accidents and it is up to the supervising adult to foresee the potential risks of physical play and structured activities. Accidents can happen, but parents can take steps to make sure that their child is safe while playing sport or being active. Nothing can replace careful supervision.The following tips are some of the most effective ways to maintain children’s safety, particularly those engaged in organised sport:
- Shape up. Children need to be sufficiently fit before they play. Practising various skills and participating in regular activity will prepare children’s body for exercise and possibly prevent strains and falls.
- Warm up. Teach children to warm up before a vigorous game and cool down after. This will help minimize muscle strains and other soft-tissue injuries.
- Cover up. To lessen the risk of heat-related illnesses, make sure children wear appropriate clothing and drink plenty of water before, during, and after a workout. Read more about sun safety.
- Gear up. Make sure you have all the safety gear needed for the particular sport or activity. To maximise its effectiveness check that it is in good condition and fits appropriately.
- Look up. Children may not always have the best judgment when it comes to risk-taking behaviours, so parents must see that their children are properly supervised while playing sports. Young children, especially, should be watched closely as they have not yet developed the knowledge or predictive skills necessary to stay safe. In older children, parents and coaching staff should be alert to signs that the children are not attempting to continue playing after an injury.
- Read up. When joining a club or sporting group find out their policies and procedures put in place to minimize injuries. Coaches need to know how to use safety equipment and make sure players use it every time.
