As parents we all have worries when sending our children out into the world and school is no exception. August is back to school month in Colorado so let us look at injury prevention in our K-12 students.
Kids will be kids and unintentional injuries or more commonly, accidents, are the main cause of injury and mortality in this age group. Medically speaking, articles focus on prevention so let us look at ways to ensure our children get home safely each day. Most school-related accidents and injuries involving our youth occur when going to school or heading home as well as when participating in sports.
While most students cannot avoid traveling to and from school, being aware of their surroundings, leaving a safe distance between vehicles and yielding to other cars can help avoid a misfortunate occurrence at the hug and go.
There are three times more crashes that occur during pick up and drop off according to recent statistics from Colorado State Patrol, with the most hazardous time being at pick up on Fridays between 3pm and 6pm. Whether the school commute is by bus, bike, foot or perhaps some form of micro mobility device, remember to leave plenty of time, not to use a cell phone while driving or walking and heed those lower school zone driving speeds.
Participating in sports is optional but provides a multitude of life lessons. Students develop leadership abilities, improve their academic performance, and acquire increased self-esteem for example. Participating in sports also results in improved physical health, as well as a good use of free time.
Injuries can and do happen, and many are preventable. A great coach will incorporate methods to minimize injury and the resulting player downtime. Pregame and pre practice warm ups are essential as is stretching afterward. Rest is necessary along with proper nutrition, and make sure to keep hydrated on and off the field.
Your coach will also teach the proper techniques for your sport and ensure all players have the appropriate equipment such as helmet and eye wear. The vast majority of high school sports injuries are strains or sprains followed by overuse injuries from repetitive motion. An injured player may use improper technique in an attempt to avoid pain. Early intervention is important to avoid further aggravation of an injury.
Whether parents choose to home school their kids or not allow them to participate in sports, life comes with risk and a great deal of choice. Weigh those pros and cons and try not to overextend the family in too many activities. If your child convinces you to let them participate in a sport, do not forget to fill out the CHSAA form and get a sports physical from your primary care provider.
Jane Newman, RN, BSN is an ICU nurse at Lutheran Hospital.
