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Play it safe...sports

In the United States, more than 30 million children play some type of organized sport. Unfortunately, the National SAFE KIDS Campaign and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) report that more than three million children and adolescents are injured playing sports or recreational activities each year. Even more alarming is that sports and recreational activities contribute to 21 percent of all traumatic brain injuries among American children.  

 Although parents can''t eliminate sport-related injuries, they can take preventative steps to reduce the risk.
 
Committed to safety
Volunteer coaches are found in most youth sports. Most upper level school sports teams, sports clubs and travel teams usually pay a minimal stipend to their coaches. Whether your child''s coach is a volunteer or holds a paid position, you''ll want to confirm he has your child''s safety in mind. Don''t be afraid to inquire about credentials.
 
Some questions you might ask:

• Do you know which league or association governs the sport and coach? For example, Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, Inc. (PIAA) oversees high school sports.
• Does the league or association perform a criminal background check? While what a coach does off the field is separate from his coaching ability, you want to make sure his actions will not be harmful to your child or a detrimental influence.
• Has the coach received the appropriate certification to spearhead the sport?

Helping kids understand diversity - attitudes are caught, not taught

"You are special"...Most of us grew-up on these words along with King Friday and Queen Sarah in a place called "The Neighborhood of Make-Believe". Through his infamous show, "Mr. Rogers'' Neighborhood", Fred Rogers used a fun world of play and fantasy to teach children about the very real issue of diversity.

The "Neighborhood of Make-Believe" has X the owl, Henrietta pussycat and Lady Elaine among others. All the residents in the neighborhood are very different from one another. But, Mr. Rogers points out to his viewers that even though people look different, we are all unique in our own way...We are all special. The Neighborhood has always been a welcoming place for visitors from different races, cultures and age groups, who speak different languages and have a wide range of skills and interests, as well as physical challenges.

Children recognize the differences between people at an early age. They begin to distinguish different skin colors and facial features at six months and start to understand their own individuality. Eighty-five percent of the brain develops between the ages of three and five and impressions formed during that time are lasting. Their comprehension about themselves and their surroundings is the most formative then as well. Children begin to ask questions about their own appearance and seek explanations for differences between people. Parents should respond to these questions with respect and honesty.

Top ten after-school activities

Many parents like their kids to continue learning even when the school day has ended. After-school tutoring and programs such as Kumon are definately beneficial. But, the more favored after-school activities aren''t just for supplementing those educational endeavors. The best extracurricular activities represent fun ways for your child to meet new friends, explore interests and become a well-rounded person. 

Whether your child dreams of becoming the next Michael Jordan or wants to light up the stages of Broadway, here are the most popular after-school activities that most school districts offer. But, be careful. Your kids may love their after-school activities so much they''ll never want to come home!

Check out this list of the top ten after-school activities loved by kids as well as parents!
1. Sports. There isn''t just one popular after-school sport. From a classic game of football or tennis to recent sports like ultimate frisbee, playing on a team gives your child the opportunity to fine-tune social skills, develop a healthy sense of competition and show pride in his school colors.  Additionally, with all the running around he''ll be doing after-school, you''ll never have to worry about his fitness levels!
2. Drama. With the popularity of musical theater on the rise (thanks to the Disney super smash High School Musical), more students than ever are clamoring to get involved with their drama departments.  Performing in the theater has always been a popular choice for students.
3. Choir.  Does your child have a voice like an angel? If so, have he or she sign up for an after-school choir program. Who knows...you might be raising the next "American Idol"!
4. Student Government. Getting involved with student government gives law or government-minded children the chance to see what it''s like in the world of politics. From running campaigns to developing new school policies, being involved in the student government is undoubtedly one of the most popular after-school activities.
5. Dance or Music Lessons. Dance provide a healthy and creative medium for children to express themselves. Music represents an essential component to every child''s education, and has even been proven to improve math and science scores.  If your child hasn''t picked up an instrument before, don''t hesitate to sign him up for after-school lessons. You''ll be an even bigger hit if you suggest lessons involving "cool" instruments like the guitar or drums!