Questions regarding safety and well-being

Consider the following questions to judge whether a sports program is physically safe, promotes skills development, and encourages fair play and respect among players:

• Does the coach require players to follow the rules and use proper safety equipment?
• Do players take time to warm up and cool down before and after each practice or event?
• Does the coach pay attention to hydration, humidity and temperature?
• How much time and effort are spent on skill development?
• How are differences in skills managed?
• Are children taught proper movement and body positioning?
• Is the coach attentive to the prevention and recognition of concussions?
• How much does each child play, and how is playing time determined?
• How does the coach communicate with children?
• How do coaches or other parents approach competition, winning and losing?