Children enjoy sports and recreation and it is an essential part of their development, physically and socially. Each activity has associated risks which can be minimised.

 

In-line skating, skateboards
Skating is a very popular activity among young people. Encourage children to practise control of direction and speed when skating.

 

• An approved helmet should be worn at all times.
• Elbow, wrist and knee padding should be worn.
• Warming exercises include circling feet and heel and toe raises.
• Children should know how to 'fall' correctly.
• Discourage 'towing'.

Horseriding
Horseriding is a very popular activity among people of varying ages. It is important to wear safety equipment and behave in a safe way when near horses.

• Always wear a helmet which is approved by Standards Australia.
• Protective clothing which should be worn are boots and clothes which cover the body well.
• Avoid riding horses on the roads if possible.
• Teach children never to stand behind a horse.
• When feeding horses hands should be kept stretched out flat.

Cricket, softball
Cricket and softball are popular team sports. Often they involve quite long periods on the field so remember to apply sunscreen and wear hats.

• Use specially designed soft cricket balls.
• Make certain that batters and wicket keepers wear gloves and padding.
• Bowlers should wear high cut boots for ankle protection with shock-absorbing insoles of Sorbothane.
• Fielders should be discouraged from sliding into fences and diving for the ball. Fingernails should be kept short.
• Restrict young bowlers to no more than 6-10 overs.

Football, soccer
Playing sport is part of a healthy lifestyle and football and soccer are chosen by many young people.

• Teams should be matched according to strength and game ability and maturity.
• The ground surface should be evenly grassed and goalposts padded.
• Players should be given pre-season training to produce strong, flexible muscles and to maintain a minimum level of fitness.
• A mouthguard should be worn at all times.
• Use modified rules and equipment for young players.

Netball, basketball
Netball and basketball are amongst the most popular team sports in Australia. Check that coaches are fully qualified and make certain that all players know the rules of the game.

• Wipe or sweep the court before, during and after play.
• Lower limbs such as calves, thighs and hamstrings and the lower back should be warmed up with stretches prior to the game.
• High cut shoes should be worn to protect ankles.
• Encourage the use of knee and elbow pads.
• Aggressive play should be discouraged.

Rock climbing
Rock-climbing is a rewarding and challenging sport, but it's also very hazardous for the experienced and inexperienced alike. Young people should develop the skills, strength and judgment for such a sport before they tackle an outdoor climb. Where better to develop those skills than at an indoor climbing gym!

Here are a few tips for safe climbing at the indoor gym:

• choose a gym with accredited instructors
• make sure the undersurfacing is sufficient to break a fall under bouldering walls
• ensure all equipment is well maintained and in good repair
• make sure the leg loops on the harness are well adjusted and harness strap is doubled back through the buckle
• check with gym instructors about their recommended procedure for tying in to harnesses
• don't climb above 1.5 metres unroped
• attempt easy climbs before proceeding to more difficult climbs
• warm up and do some stretching exercises before climbing to avoid cramps
• have a small drink between climbs
• never climb alone

Remember, being a good climber at the gym doesn't mean you'll be a great climber out in the bush. If you head for Mount Arapiles, go with experienced, well-equipped climbers and start on the easy climbs.


Bushwalking
There is much to be seen and learnt when bushwalking. Enjoy the walk by considering safety precautions.

• Teach children to be aware of snakes. Wear solid clothing and long pants to avoid snakebite.
• Keep well clear of cliffs.
• Make sure that the group stays together.
• Take a first aid kit, insect repellent, plenty of water, some food, raincoats and an emergency shelter.
• Young children should not walk more kilometres than their age. For instance a six year old should not walk more than six kilometres.

Trampolines
Physical education professionals see trampolines as valuable for developing balance and coordination. However trampolines pose injury risks for children which result in serious injuries such as fractures, spinal and internal injuries.

• Children should be supervised by an adult when trampolining.
• Trampolines for use at home are not recommended for children under six years of age.
• Check trampolines regularly. Look for wear around joints, signs of fraying or laddering of beds, replace torn pads and securely attach springs.
• Children using trampolines should be dressed in suitable clothing. Loose clothing allows the free use of hands and feet and bare feet slip less than socks.
• Teach children to use trampolines safely. Only one child should jump at a time and they should be encouraged to stay in the centre of the bed and mount and dismount sensibly.

Swimming
Swimming is a very popular sport in Australia. Most Australians learn to swim at an early age. Each summer, pools, beaches, lakes and rivers are used by children and adults. Under correct supervision, swimming can be one of the most enjoyable sports.

• Children must be constantly supervised by a responsible adult when swimming.
• Warming-up is a vital part of any exercise to prevent injury. Muscles are less prone to injury when warm, and warming-up prepares the mind and body for the activity.
• After warming-up encourage children to stretch gently and slowly. When stretching, never bounce or stretch rapidly and take large relaxed breaths.
• Remember that dehydration is a concern when swimming as it is with other sports. Encourage children to replace fluid in small amounts regularly.

Always ensure that swimming coaches have formal qualifications.


Athletics
Many children participate in athletics, on all levels and in all events. Athletics are an enjoyable and healthy pastime for children. Due to the nature of athletics training can be repetitive which can lead to loss of interest. It is important to vary training activities and encourage participation in all events. Athletics should be a fun activity, avoid the 'win at all cost' mentality.

• Athletic training and competition should be closely supervised by qualified coaches. Clear rules should be provided for training and behaviour especially with throwing events.
• Warming-up is a vital part of any exercise to prevent injury. Muscles are less prone to injury when warm and warming-up prepares the mind and body for the activity.
• After warming-up encourage children to stretch gently and slowly. When stretching, never bounce or stretch rapidly and take large relaxed breaths.
• Prevention of sunburn, dehydration and heat stroke is essential. Children are more prone to heat stress than adults. Encourage children to replace fluid in small amounts before, during and after events. Sunscreen and hats should be used in all weather conditions and athletic activity avoided during hot weather.
• Clothing should be well fitted and non-synthetic to allow heat to escape. Good quality running shoes which provide foot stability and shock absorption should be used to prevent overuse injuries.

Hockey
Hockey, as with other sports involving the use of hard balls, has some associated risks. Injuries can be minimised with appropriate protective equipment and a good understanding of the rules.

• The hardness of the balls used should be reduced with younger children so that they can participate without the fear of being hurt.
• It is essential that rules are stated and followed strictly. Ensuring children do not swing their hockey sticks above shoulder height is important to prevent facial or head injuries.
• Protective equipment should be provided. Shin pads are very helpful in minimising injuries to the lower leg and boys should use groin protectors.
• Check the playing area and remove any objects left laying about. Boundaries should be clearly marked and set away from immovable objects such as fences or posts so that players don't run into them when they are concentrating on the ball or an opponent.
• Hockey involves fast running and turning. It is essential that players warm-up and stretch before playing and cool-down and stretch after the game.

Boating
Boating can be a very enjoyable activity. However, several safety precautions must be taken.

• All children, like adults, must wear an Australian Standards approved personal flotation device.
• Remember to encourage children to wear appropriate clothing, sunscreen and a hat to protect from the sun. Plenty of fresh water should be packed to prevent dehydration.
• All boating safety equipment, including fire extinguishers and flares, must be present and checked before the boat is launched.

Fishing
Fishing is both an interesting and relaxing activity. As fishing involves water environments and dangerous equipment such as sharp fishing hooks, care must be taken.

• Children must be supervised constantly when near water. Whether playing on a river bank or standing on rocks at the beach, children are in danger of falling or being washed into the water.
• Supervise and help children to prepare their fishing line and to cast and pull in their lines. Fishing hooks can cause serious hand and eye injuries.
• Avoid spending long hours fishing with children as children have shorter attention spans than do adults. Accidental injuries are more likely to occur when children are bored or tired.
• When outdoors in the sun and wind, ensure that sensible clothing is worn, adequate sun protection applied and that you have plenty of water and food to prevent dehydration and hunger.