Youth Sports and Chronic Illnesses

• August 23, 2018
• Amber Specialty Pharmacy
• Health Tips

As the new school year begins, many kids also head back to sports practice. Children often start participating in sports from a young age. If your child has a chronic health condition, however, you may have some concerns. A chronic illness, such as asthma, juvenile arthritis and other health conditions, doesn’t mean your child has to ride the bench. Always be sure to talk to your child’s doctor before he or she starts a new activity or exercise program. Keep reading to learn more about youth sports and chronic illnesses.

Physical Health Benefits

Greater muscle strength and better heart health are just two of the many physical benefits to exercise. Kids who are living with a chronic illness may also notice improved mobility and have an easier time managing pain when they stay active. Many sports require coordination and other motor skills. When your child participates in athletic activities, they develop these skills and other physical fitness fundamentals. KidsHealth.org outlines three elements of fitness, which include endurance, strength and flexibility. Sports are a great way to incorporate all three of these elements and develop good overall fitness.

Friendships through Team Bonding

Sports are a great way for your child to connect with his or her peers. Beyond the physical benefits, your child has a great opportunity to make new friends through sports and other activities. The activity offers common ground and quality time spent together in practices and games. Kids also get to connect with a new social circle outside of their classrooms. A strong team bond can become a source of friendship and support for children with chronic illnesses. It’s easy to feel isolated when dealing with a chronic health condition. Having a group of friends and teammates may help your child feel connected to his or her peers.

Self-Esteem Boost

Kids who participate in sports tend to have higher levels of self-confidence. Whether it’s because of team bonding or success on the field, psychologists agree that sports are great for a child’s development. Children with chronic health conditions can benefit from this link between mental health and sports. Living with a chronic health condition often comes with emotional ups and downs. Sports may become a healthy outlet for your child to release those emotions. Physical activity may also lead to success in school. Studies show when kids participate in sports they are likely to have more self-control and better behavior in the classroom.

Take Time to Rest

Children with chronic illnesses may need additional rest during practices and games. Help them understand their limits and know when to take a break. In addition to taking a break during games and practices, sometimes it’s good to take time off. When the season ends, your child may want to relax or even explore a new activity. The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that kids who specialize in sports have a greater risk of injury, so encourage your child to try a variety of games.

Communicate with Coaches

If your child has a chronic health condition, it’s important for you to communicate with his or her coaches. Help them understand your child’s condition and the warning signs for when something is wrong. You may want to share information about your child’s medication or contact information for your child’s doctor.

How Parents Can Help

Find an activity that your child enjoys. Sports and other physical activities should be a fun way for your child to let loose and relax. Stanford Children’s Health offers suggestions on how to find the right sport for your child. Always talk with your child’s doctor before enrolling him or her in a new exercise program or physical activity.

Instead of emphasizing winning and losing games, focus on your child’s enjoyment, effort and attitude. This shift can take the pressure off and help them develop good character. You can help your child get involved with a new activity by showing your support. Whether it’s helping them practice in the backyard or attending their games, kids are often more successful when their parents are actively engaged. There are also many ways parents and kids can workout together outside of sports. Here is a list of  family activities you can work into your everyday schedule.

Exercise can effectively help kids manage chronic conditions. There are many benefits to helping your child build a healthy lifestyle form a young age. In addition to teaching your family about the importance of exercise, help your child build good medication management habits. It’s important for children living with a chronic illness to become familiar with their treatment plan. Your Amber Specialty Pharmacy pharmacist can help you and your child understand your medication and provide education and training resources.