COVID-19 has changed nearly every aspect of our daily lives, and everyone is still adapting to the “new normal” of 2020. One of the most important things that has been impacted is children and how their schools are operating.

Online learning, blended learning, and in-person learning with social distancing modifications are options that differ depending on the state and school district your child attends. In addition to a new way of learning, extracurricular activities have changed too. Let’s discuss what those changes look like for your child and if they’ll still be able to participate in school sports amidst COVID-19. 

Are School Sports Still Happening?

There is no federal ruling regarding school sports, which means it’s up to each state to determine if school sports can resume or not. States with a higher number of cases are more likely to suspend school sports, while states that have consistently lower numbers will likely determine it’s safe to resume sports. If a state resumes school sports and then sees a sudden increase in the number of cases, sports may be suspended. For a state-by-state breakdown on school sports resuming, visit this site. 

Staying Informed

Even if your state has determined that school sports can resume, each school district can decide whether they want to resume sports. Your child’s school district should have information available online or by phone regarding their current school sports policies. For information on the latest number of cases in your area, contact the local health department. 

If your child plans to attend school sports, ask their coach what safety measures are being taken to lower the risk of COVID-19 spreading. 

Getting Prepared 

Your child should get a sports physical each year before attending any games or practices. Sports physicals look at the overall health of your child to ensure they’re healthy enough to play. If your child needs any medication or modifications to allow them to play safely, a sports physical provides that information in writing for your child’s coach. During the physical, your child can get their flu shot too, so they’re prepared before peak flu season hits! 

With COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to stay up to date on your child’s health and any medical conditions they may have developed, which is why sports physicals should never be skipped. 

To schedule a sports physical, contact an urgent care center near you today!