Trauma Survivors Network - provided by ATS

Survive. Connect. Rebuild.

A Program of the ATS

Recreational Activities

Many recreational activities pose the risk of non-intentional injury. Children are more susceptible to these injuries because they are still growing and gaining motor and cognitive skills. More than 3.5 million children ages 14 and under suffer from sports and recreation-related injuries each year. Injuries associated with participation in sports and recreational activities account for 21 percent of all traumatic brain injuries among children in the United States. Young children, especially ages 5 to 9, are more likely to sustain playground- and bicycle-related injuries. Older children are more likely to suffer from bicycle- and sports-related injuries and overexertion.

Water recreation is associated with three-fourths of all recreation-related deaths. However, nearly half of all sports- and recreation-related head injuries to children are caused by bicycle, skating and skateboard incidents.

Children develop at different rates, both physically and psychologically. A less developed child competing against a more mature child of the same age and weight is at a disadvantage and may be at greater risk for injury.

 


Associated pages

*Risk Factors
Prevention Strategies
Sports
Additional Resources