Parents, we know you’ve got your team colors on and your blankets ready for those crisp Saturdays on the sideline. But before sports are in full swing, there are a few things you’ll want to do to have the best season ever. Read on for seven tips for prepping your kids for this year’s activities.
This post is sponsored by Smithfield Foods’ family of brands, including Smithfield®, Nathan’s Famous®, Eckrich® and Carando®. Whether your children are just coming home from practice or are looking for a quick bite after school, Smithfield has recipes for every occasion and every meal of the day. Check out their recipe generator to discover your next meal-time inspiration.
1. Make Sure You Sign Up Early
Talk with your child about what sports they want to play this year: Are they ready to try something new? Do they want to do a team sport, or do they prefer martial arts? Active, willing participation from your kids is an essential part of getting ready for the season.
2. Talk about Expectations
Every family, and every child, is different. It’s important to maintain a balance of what is achievable (How often is practice? Who will get your child to and from practice?) and what will exhaust everyone in the family before the season even ends. Take a look at your family calendar and talk about what will work for everyone, including you as the parent. It’s also a good idea to set clear academic expectations about homework, school projects and game days.
3. Get the Gear
Team jerseys, protective gear such as shin guards and mouth guards and proper footwear are just a few things to put on your shopping list. Talk to other parents in your neighborhood or try consignment sporting goods stores to find deals on gently used equipment.
4. Get an Annual Comprehensive Eye Exam
Make sure the “eye” in hand-eye coordination is at the forefront of your list by scheduling your child’s annual comprehensive eye exam. In particular, children who develop myopia, whose primary symptom is blurry distance vision (nearsightedness) can struggle in sports or other extracurricular activities. Make sure their eyes are healthy and talk to your eye doctor if your age-appropriate child is a candidate for MiSight® 1 day soft contact lenses. Designed for myopia control, they are the first and only FDA-approved* product proven to slow myopia progression in children, aged 8-12 at the initiation of treatment.†1 Children who wear contact lenses have a significantly better quality of life than kids wearing glasses, especially when it comes to athletics and appearance.5
5. Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Make sure their gear bag has a spot for high-protein, low sugar snacks that are great for grab-and-go before and after games. You’ll want a high-quality water bottle, too, to make sure your children stay properly hydrated.
6. Schedule a Physical
If you haven’t already had their annual pediatrician’s visit, schedule your child for a well-child checkup before the start of any sports season to make sure they are clear for any activities. Your doctor can also discuss the warning signs of concussions and how to manage them.
7. Have Fun!
Take the time not just to attend games, but practice those skills with your child—it’s okay if you’re not the most amazing pitcher, your child might enjoy that just as much. Stay active with them and make the most of the beautiful weather. And don’t forget your camera!
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