Earlier this week, I found myself engrossed in the kickoff of the NFL season, staying up far too late as my older kids begged to watch alongside me. We often compromise on bedtime, allowing them to stay up until halftime, promising to go to bed without any fuss. Watching football has turned into a beloved family tradition, and I relish the moments spent cheering for our favorite teams, regardless of the outcome. However, as my children grow, I experience a mix of excitement and apprehension about their interest in playing the sport themselves.
Currently, my kids aren’t involved in football, but I know that day is on the horizon. When my son eventually says, “Dad, I want to play football,” I already know how I’ll respond: “Go for it, champ.” Yet, as I type these words, anxiety washes over me. I fear that my son’s enthusiasm will eclipse my concerns about the long-term risks associated with such a physically demanding sport. I wish I could find clear guidance, but even among current and former players, opinions vary widely regarding the safety of football for children.
For instance, retired NFL player, Sam Thompson, advocates for kids to engage in football as long as parents understand the potential dangers. In contrast, active players like Jake Roberts have chosen not to let their own children play, believing the risks outweigh any benefits. This conflicting outlook, coupled with hard medical data on the sport’s hazards, leaves me in a quandary as I weigh my children’s desires against the realities of the game.
I feel conflicted about potentially restricting their interests. I often encourage my children to explore their passions and experiences, and I worry that forbidding them from trying football might only drive them further away from me. Parenting decisions in these situations don’t come with clear right or wrong answers, and outcomes often become apparent only in retrospect, which is daunting.
As I contemplate allowing my son to play, I’ve resolved to take some proactive steps:
- We Will Watch “Concussion” Together
If the portrayal of CTE in the film doesn’t strike a chord with my son, I might have bigger issues to address. This movie has fundamentally changed how I view football. - Hold Off Until Middle School
I believe flag football suffices until kids reach sixth grade. I struggle to see why tackle football is necessary for children under 10. - Preseason Discussion with the Coach
While I recognize that all coaches now complete mandatory concussion training, I want to discuss their approach to teaching proper tackling techniques and their experiences with players who have sustained injuries. - Consult with the Pediatrician
A portion of my child’s annual physical will involve a conversation with our pediatrician about recognizing concussion symptoms, understanding potential risks, and staying informed about new medical research.
I understand that none of these measures can guarantee my child’s safety or quell my anxiety. These steps are about demonstrating to my son, his coaches, teammates, and our family doctor that I take this decision seriously, even though I’m apprehensive. Once he takes the field, we become a united team, collectively responsible for his well-being.
As a father, I strive to uphold principles that sometimes conflict with my instinct to protect my kids. I want to nurture their passions and encourage them to try new things. I envision myself in the front row, cheering loudly at every game while secretly hoping for a swift, safe conclusion that inspires my child to pursue a different interest.
For more insights into parenting and family dynamics, check out our post about navigating the journey of home insemination. Additionally, if you’re looking for an authoritative resource on home insemination practices, you can visit this comprehensive guide. For in-depth information on fertility, this Wikipedia page serves as an excellent resource.
In summary, while the journey of allowing my children to explore their interests in football is fraught with concerns, I am committed to supporting their passions while ensuring their safety through proactive measures.