YouthPerformanceTrainer.com helps parents choose coaches, think about training load and keep sport enjoyable for young athletes. It is a publication written by an editorial team doing desk research, and it is not a source of medical care.
Information, not advice for your child
Articles here describe what published research and sports organizations say about training, recovery and safety. They are meant to help you decide and to prepare questions. They do not diagnose an injury, treat one or set a program for your child, and they are not individual medical advice. Every young athlete is different, and age, growth and health history all matter.
When to ask a clinician
- Your child has pain that lasts, that wakes them at night or that gets worse with activity.
- An injury is swollen, will not bear weight or does not improve with rest.
- You notice dizziness, unusual fatigue, a drop in appetite or a change in mood alongside heavy training.
- Your child had a head knock, even a mild one.
- You are thinking of supplements, energy products or a big increase in training for a child.
A pediatrician or sports medicine clinician can look at your child directly, which a website never can. Supplements and medicines can also interact with one another, so ask a pharmacist or clinician before giving a young person anything new.
Emergencies
If a child collapses, has trouble breathing, loses consciousness, shows signs of a serious head injury or has chest pain, call 911 immediately. Do not wait to read an article.
For general background from public health sources, the CDC publishes guidance on youth physical activity and concussion. Spotted an error on this site? Tell the team through the contact page.