The CDC has issued recommendations for restarting youth sports, and after careful consideration, we’ve decided to sit this season out.
Summer has arrived in Maine, but it feels like a fleeting moment after months of staying indoors. My children, like many others, are eager to reconnect with friends. My daughter dreams of participating in lacrosse camp, running on the field with her teammates, and celebrating with cupcakes and photos afterward. The excitement of spring sports is something we all look forward to, and I miss seeing my child enjoy the outdoors.
Restrictions in our area are gradually being lifted. The governor recently announced that gatherings of up to 50 people are now permitted, and restaurants will reopen for dining soon. My kids are bursting with energy, and I can see the appeal of local sports programs for them. However, I can’t shake the feeling that the timing isn’t right. The idea of keeping my kids socially distanced while they play seems unrealistic, so we will not be participating.
My children often tease me about being overly cautious, and while I acknowledge that I can be a bit protective, this isn’t the moment for me to adopt a more relaxed approach. I need assurance that my kids and their friends will be safe. With no testing available for children before events, no vaccine for COVID-19 yet, and ongoing uncertainty regarding MIS-C, I refuse to take unnecessary risks.
Understanding the Challenges
These are unprecedented times for everyone involved—kids, coaches, volunteers, and spectators. The challenge of explaining to a young child to stay close, wear a mask, and avoid playing with friends is daunting, not to mention the struggle to keep them off playgrounds. Watching from the sidelines or dropping them off with the worry of potential exposure is an overwhelming thought.
Is it worth it? Schools and businesses have been closed for good reasons, and plunging into sports this summer doesn’t feel safe to me. Each state is handling the situation differently, and the CDC’s guidelines emphasize that communities should adapt to their unique circumstances. They highlight that team practices and competitions can heighten the risk of spreading COVID-19.
It’s a lot to ask of children, who naturally forget rules when they’re excited. They want to hug, high-five, and share drinks. The CDC recommends face coverings and social distancing, which seems counterproductive to the spirit of team sports. I can’t envision kids managing to play well while remembering to keep their distance or wear masks in the heat of summer.
Concerns About Facilities and Enjoyment
Additionally, facilities with adequate handwashing stations are sparse, and indoor sports pose even greater risks. I can’t enjoy watching my kids play, burdened with anxiety over the health risks, and many parents share my concerns about protecting vulnerable populations.
I also question whether the kids would even have fun with the new restrictions. For those who are already anxious in new situations, the added pressure could detract from the joy of sports. I don’t believe that skipping one summer of organized sports will adversely affect my children long-term. It’s disappointing, yes, but it’s a small sacrifice to continue flattening the COVID-19 curve. Hopefully, by next year—or sooner—there will be a vaccine, and life can feel more normal again.
For now, I won’t trade my child’s potential summer enjoyment for the risk of illness or hospitalization. The stakes are too high, and I’ll reconsider when the situation improves. While youth sports are vital for kids and communities, they are secondary to the need to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Further Reading
For more insights on parenting during these challenging times, explore our post on home insemination kits at Home Insemination Kit. For those seeking authoritative information, check out Make A Mom and the CDC’s excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination here.
In summary, we have opted out of youth sports this year due to safety concerns amid the ongoing pandemic, prioritizing our children’s health over participation.