Family Health - Parent Directory - Natural Awakenings

school teams. “Every time they play is ahighlight for me,” she says. “Win, lose ordraw, they have such a passion for thegame. You all get caught up in the powerof the play and the magic of the moment.”A part-time writing instructor atCarroll University, in Waukesha, Wisconsin,Boyd has been posting weeklyparental advice blogs on USYouthSoccer.org for four years. One suggests that iffield conditions are damp, parents shouldbring gallon-size baggies to protect thecar’s floor from the mud of soccer shoes,plus a change of clothes for the players.In another, she asks parents “not to besnooty or pompous” if their child’s teamis better than the opposition and to “havemore patience with referees that don’tmeet your standard of perfection in calls.”Because soccer calls for nearconstantmovement—running with ortoward the ball or walking into a betterposition on the field—it’s an effectiveantidote to childhood obesity. The President’sCouncil on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition(Fitness.gov) suggests that childrenget one hour or more a day in eithermoderate or vigorous aerobic physicalactivity. For adults, the recommendationis at least 30 minutes of physical activitya day, or 75 minutes a week of vigorousaerobic activity. Playing or practicingsoccer skills definitely meets the criteria.Last year, the American Academy ofPediatrics Association (HealthyChildren.org) cited soccer as a way for childrento be physically active while they learnteamwork and sportsmanship. It alsonoted that the most common playerinjuries are minor sprains and strains, followedby bruises. Boyd advises, “Most ofthese require rest, ice, compression andelevation for the injured area, and a weekaway from the sport. Don’t rush childrenback onto the field; think long-term.”Current and longtime U.S. nationalOlympic team member Christie Rampone,of Point Pleasant, New Jersey,notes that because soccer doesn’tinvolve the hands, “Youngsters get usedto using other, different muscle groups,allowing for optimal strength and coordination.”She suggests that parents havechildren also note some non-action elementsof the sport, such as the communicationoccurring on the soccer field.Even when people in the standsThe number of youthsoccer players in theUnited States hasdoubled since 1990,to more than4 million players.~U.S. Soccer Federationare loudly shouting encouragement,players are talking with each other andusing body language to enhance theirteam play. “Point out to kids the positiveemotions and energy expressedwhen things don’t go well. Even thoughthe game can be frustrating at times,learn from how the players stay poisedand focused throughout the match.”For more information, also visitUSSoccer.com and nbcOlympics.com.Randy Kambic, who played soccer inschool, is a freelance writer and editorin Estero, FL, and a copyeditor forNatural Awakenings.SOCCER AS A FAMILY AFFAIRHere are some ways small groups of two or more soccer neophytes can join in the fun.n Start by using the sides of the feet at a 90-degree angle to the path of the balland tap it back and forth.n Soon, start using more of the instep in kicking the ball to lift it into the air a little.Also, when “trapping” (controlling) the ball, pull a foot or leg back slightly uponcontact, so that it settles closer.n With three people, arrange everyone in a triangle. Later, slightly changing positionscan further improve ball passing and controlling abilities.n Play “keep away,” with a third person in-between the other two.n Eventually, start juggling—keeping the ball aloft and glancing off the feet, thighs,chest and head (no hands)—thus expanding basic skills and providing a progressivenumber of hits without drops for each player to keep trying to surpass.Summer’S ending - get in ShapeJune is Men’s Month • at Absolute Fitness!Come baCk to the gym & Save!Kids are heading back to school, summer is winding down - it’s time to get fitfor fall! 6 mo. full membership - $335.00. Or choose a 6 mo. pool membership- $300.00. Or try a one year contractwith full access to facility (no classes):$39.00 per month prepaid.* PersonalTraining 2 Pack - $99.00.We offer:• Array of fitness equipment• POOL, spa and steam rooms• Cardio deck, aerobics & aqua classes• Clean & uncrowded facilitiesCome for a tour & a free workout!884-0330 or visit www.absolutfit.com.* New members only.2727 South County Trail • East Greenwich, RI • 401- 884-0330natural awakenings August 201243