Parents should watch for indicators that can help them determine whether their child is ready for sports. Some questions to consider include:

• Does my child express an interest in a particular sport?
• Does my child frequently seem bored?
• Does my child seem to be at an appropriate level of development to try organized sports?
• Is there sufficient time available to commit to the activity?

The best sports for young children are the ones that interest them. Parents should avoid insisting their child play a particular sport because they themselves used to play it, or they think their child would be good at it due to his physical stature.

“The challenges in determining whether a child is too young are mainly emotional and psychological,” says Pete Stavinoha, Ph.D., a neuropsychologist at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. “Parents need to guide their children with appropriate expectations and goals during youth sports. Any age is fine as long as expectations from parents, teachers and coaches are at the appropriate level for your child.”

Dr. Philip Wilson, an orthopedic specialist on the medical staff at Children’s, says most childhood sports injuries occur because of a lack of education and awareness about safety precautions and potential injury, inappropriate or lack of equipment, or unprepared and improperly conditioned children.

If your child decides to participate in organized sports, it is important for him to practice good safety habits. Parents can help prevent serious sports-related injuries by supervising their child at play, learning proper coaching techniques, providing a safe playing environment and making sure their child always wears proper safety equipment.

Another important safety concern is dehydration. If your child is thirsty, it means he is already partially dehydrated. Liquids should be used to prevent thirst, not to quench it. Water is the best source for replacing fluids, so parents should avoid sodas and other drinks with caffeine.

Parents should be actively involved in making sure their child has access to the correct equipment for each particular sport. Common protective equipment to help prevent injuries includes, but is not limited to:

• Helmet
• Mouth guard
• Eye protection (visors, goggles and masks)
• Pads (wrist, knee, shoulder, thigh and elbow)
• Gloves
• Shin guards
• Protective cup
• Shoes (which vary by sport)

The right fit also is essential when selecting safety equipment. Parents should avoid purchasing oversized equipment on the theory that a child will “grow” into it.

Refer to the Children’s Medical Center Web site – www.childrens.com – for in-depth information on sportsrelated topics. You’ll find tips on sports safety and nutrition as well as information on a number of sportsrelated injuries and illnesses.

The true benefit of early-age sports participation can be measured in the positive lifelong effects they have on your child. Below is a list of just a few of the valuable skills gained and lessons learned from youth sports:

• Increased coordination
• Physical fitness
• Improved self-esteem
• Teamwork
• Self-discipline
• Responsibility
• Confidence