Injury Prevention

What Can Parents Do?

Get Your Kids into the Safety Zone

While middle-school kids are beginning to test their independence, experts say it is essential for parents to remember that they are still a powerful force in influencing their children’s attitudes and behavior.

Often times parents back away when they see their child’s thrust for independence. As a result, parent involvement in the middle grades decreases. But this is a mistake–middle school kids need you more than ever. – Partnership for Learning

As the parent of a middle-schooler you can help your child prevent bicycle and sports injuries by:

Talking with your child about the risk of injury associated with the activity. Help your child understand the consequences of becoming injured.
Encouraging your child’s independence by making him responsible for his safety.
Equipping her to avoid injuries by understanding what safety gear is available and appropriate to the activity.
Ensuring that your child has the safety equipment she needs for appropriate protection and that it remains in good condition.
Watching Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s safety video, “Only a Moment” for school-age children and teenagers.

Last Update
October 10, 2008

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