Sports and Your Child, Some Common Questions
By David M. Duany, M.D.
With summertime upon us, childhood memories come back for most of us of playing baseball in the neighborhood sandlot or kickball in the street or whatever game you could muster up the neighborhood kids to play. Times have changed my friends. Today more than 6 million high school boys and girls take part in team sports and over 20 million others join in recreational or competitive sports outside of school. Sports programs help children in many ways. When a child's body is fit, they look and feel better. They stay healthier and the sense of personal accomplishment can help them build confidence and increased social acceptance. The most common questions asked of pediatricians concerning sports programs are:
What age can the child start in sports programs?
When considering what age a child would be old enough to start in an organized sports program you need to always remember that no two children are alike. They grow and mature at different rates. A good guideline would be around 6 years of age. Usually before this a child will not have a good grasp of teamwork.
Should boys and girls play sports together?
Until the onset of puberty boys and girls can compete together because they are basically the same size and weight and have pretty much the same strength. After puberty safety and fairness dictate that boys and girls should usually participate in separate leagues. Of course there are always exceptions.
What are the risks of injury?
Even today with the current level of protective padding and helmets the risk of injury is present in all sports. Most sports related injuries (over 60%) involve soft tissue injuries such as strains and sprains. Only about 5%of injures involve fractures. Young athletes should always be encouraged to wear protective gear not only to protect them today but to help insure they will still enjoy the sport long into the future.
What do I do if my child wants to quit?
The most important thing to do if your child tells you they want to quit is to gather as much information as possible. The reason they want to quit might be as straight forward as not getting along with another player or a lack of interest in the sport. Observe them for stress related symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, or dehydration. Watch your child perform in the sport. Is the coach placing more value on winning than the values of teamwork and learning? Learning to cope and not give up are also important skills to develop but need to be balanced with the child's desires and your observations and feelings. You may want to work with your child's pediatrician or coach to reach the best resolution.
