Youth Soccer Child Safty Gear

Having your child involved any various types of sporting activities can be a great way to teach them discipline, help them build confidence, and more. However, as fun as playing sports maybe, they can often be very dangerous when the right protective gear is either not worn, or worn improperly. Making sure that your child’s safety gear is properly fitted can help keep them safe from serious injury. Here are some things you should know when it comes to protecting your child during sports.

Shin Guards

Soccer is a sport that mostly uses the legs, especially a sensitive area like the shin. In order for shin guards to do their job, which is to protect the shin, they must fit your child’s leg properly. Shin guards should have a snug fit and depend on your child’s height, they should rest about 2 inches under the knee. There are a few styles of shin guards to choose from such as shin socks, slip-in guards, and ankle guards. The type of position that your child plays will determine how much protection he may need but ankle guards are usually best for children as they offer more protection.

Mouth Guards

Mouthguards can be found pre-formed or custom made for a more comfortable fit. Although mouthguards are not typically used in soccer, having that extra form of protection can be very beneficial. The last thing you want is to have to take your child to the dentist because they took a ball to the face and chipped a tooth. Soccer balls are hard and so are those kicks. Although it may not be a sport where there is much bodily contact, accidents can still happen just the same.

Cleats

Cleats are extremely important for helping to maintain stability and traction in a number of different sports. However, not all cleats are created equal therefore you must choose cleats that are specific to the sport. The shape, length, and spacing of the cleats will differ depending on the sport so be sure that you are choosing the right type of cleats that are made for your child’s position.

Not only is choosing the right safety gear important, but you should also make sure that the fit is correct as well. Gear that is ill-fitting may not be able to perform optimally or offer the proper protection. And even if the sport doesn’t necessarily call for a certain piece of gear, it is always better to have it and not need it.

Want more tips on how to be a better soccer parent and support your child in the sport? Try our Snap Soccer Parent Course!