Soccer is a fun and popular sport for children of all ages. With the increased popularity and more kids playing soccer, there have also been more reports of injuries. Thinking about your child's safety can help prevent these injuries.
In addition to a uniform, equipment your child will need before playing soccer include:
shin guards
soccer shoes with molded cleats or ribbed soles
a soccer ball - be sure to choose one of appropriate size for your child
water bottle and avoid leather balls, which may become waterlogged and very heavy, making them dangerous for play.
sun screen and insect repellant
mouth guards and eye protectors are also a good idea
The other piece of equipment that your child will use, but which you won't likely have to supply, is a soccer goal. Many of the more serious injuries and deaths of children playing soccer involve improperly used soccer goals, which may tipover, so you may want to make sure that the ones your child uses are safe.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends the following safety tips:
Securely anchor or counterweight movable soccer goals at ALL times
Anchor or chain one goal to another, to itself in a folded down position, or to nearby fence posts, dugouts, or any other similar sturdy fixture when not in use. If this is not practical, store movable soccer goals in a place where children cannot have access to them.
Remove nets when goals are not in use.
Check for structural integrity and proper connecting hardware before every use. Replace damaged or missing parts or fasteners immediately.
NEVER allow anyone to climb on the net or goal framework.
Ensure safety/warning labels are clearly visible (placed under the crossbar and on the sides of the down-posts at eye level).
Fully disassemble goals for seasonal storage.
Always exercise extreme caution when moving goals and allow adequate manpower to move goals of varied sizes and weights. Movable soccer goals should only be moved by authorized and trained personnel.
Always instruct players on the safe handling of and potential dangers associated with movable soccer goals.
Movable soccer goals should only be used on LEVEL (flat) fields.
Is the soccer goal that your child using safely anchored to prevent it from tipping over? Does it have appropriate padding?
Other tips to keep your kids safe while playing soccer include:
not encouraging the use of the 'technique of heading the ball until the potential for permanent cognitive impairment is further delineated' - from the AAP Policy Statement
keeping your kids well hydrated while playing by encouraging frequent breaks and drinking, even if he or she isn't thirsty
making sure the soccer field is properly maintained without holes or debris that may harm your child
encouraging your child to warm up and stretch before playing or practicing
taking your child to your Pediatrician for a physcial exam before starting a new sport's program and at least once a year
Important disclaimer: The information on keepkidshealthy.com is for educational purposes only and should not be considered to bemedical advice. It is not meant to replace the advice of the physician who cares for your child. All medical advice and information should be considered to be incomplete without a physical exam, which is not possible without a visit to your doctor.
