As the pandemic rolls on, parents continue to struggle with limiting their children’s screen time and encouraging physical activity. For young athletes, there is heightened concern about being game-ready and prepared for a safe return to play.
In this timely discussion, our sports medicine experts offer practical tips, useful resources, and creative ideas for supporting children’s physical and mental health during the pandemic.
Key Takeaways and Resources
For guidance on returning to sports, we recommend reviewing the guidelines posted by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). These have recently been revised to strengthen face mask recommendations and offer clarifications on cardiac risks for young athletes who have had COVID-19.
Physical activity is important for everyone, including infants, children, and teens. Parents also should be active role models and focus on fun. As a benchmark for healthy development, the AAP has published guidelines on how active kids should be based on age group.
Technology often gets a bad rap when it comes to keeping your kids healthy and fit, but it can actually be a great tool to help you get them off the couch. Some favorites include: Peloton app, Sworkit Kids, Planet Fitness Home Work-Ins, and Cosmic Kids.
COVID-19 has led to sudden changes to the social lives and daily routines of children. Learn some tipsfrom our mental health experts on helping kids cope and manage stress in times of crisis.
