This post was sponsored by PhysicianOne Urgent Care as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
Football Mom Survival Guide: Tips, Tricks, Ideas
I would highly suggest starting a group chat with the other moms who have children on the team. You honestly can not be everywhere all the time. I know for my youngest son we have to volunteer a certain amount of hours per season, and honestly, anything can happen at any time during a game. Plus, all of the moms typically do not sit together. So it's nice to have a group chat going in the event that a player is "down". We're able to send a group text to the other parents to let them know which player it is. Even in the event that your child makes a touchdown while you're in the bathroom. Plus, you'll also find that some of the moms in the chat spouses are coaches. It's nice to know first hand about upcoming events or canceled practices. I highly suggest encouraging a group chat for this season if one is not already established.
Sports Physical
Yes, another appointment. Whether your child is playing for the first year or returning. Having a youth sports physical is required if your child plans on playing football this season. Trust me, this is an exam that many moms forget about scheduling. No, worries if your physician is booked. You can easily visit one of PhysicianOne Urgent Care centers. They have locations in Connecticut, Massachusettes, and New York. What I love about PhysicianOne Urgent Care is that they have extended hours that can fit any schedule. Plus, they offer online check-in which is super convenient. PhysicianOne Urgent Care even offers flu shots every day, with no appointment necessary. I like to get ours out of the way while we're there for the entire family. They're currently running a promotion for $35 youth sports physicals until September 15th.
Stay Organized
It's so important to stay organized during the football season. Whether you prefer a physical or digital planner. You need something to house all of your football documentation and important information. From appointments to scrimmages and game schedules. Especially if you have multiple children cheering and playing this season. As a busy mom, it's so important to know where the information is when you need it. I like to import all of the game and practice, and even fundraiser information in my planner, therefore, I do not overbook and/or overextend myself. Knowing when your child had their last physical at PhysicianOne Urgent Care, and being able to remind the team mom or coach when you submitted the physical form is such a time saver. I like to keep all our important football information recorded in my planner. It's so nice to be able to remind them that "X" is submitted on "X" day.
Emergency Options
Of course, no one wants to think about the worse case scenario. However, as a parent, you have to be prepared and know your options. Anything can happen during a routine football practice or even an actual game. My son has been playing for almost seven years, and I learned through the years being prepared is a must. Did you know that an emergency visit could $750 for treatment after the initial co-pay? The exact same treatment at PhysicianOne Urgent Care is closer to $150. PhysicianOne Urgent Care centers are simply the best alternative to the Emergency Room for non-life threatening injuries for everyone in your home. They accept almost all insurances and even provide X-ray, lab, IV services. I suggest having their information programmed in your phone, and stored in your gps. It makes it so much easier when you have appointments.
Enjoy
The football season goes by really fast, and it only happens once a year. I know it can be a really busy time and even nerve-racking. however, learn to enjoy every moment and actually be in the moment. I can't believe my oldest son will be entering in his sophomore year of high school football. Take many photos and record videos. It will come a time where you will not be driving your child too and from practices and games. Trust me, it feels weird. The days of the week of football games will change. Trust me, each year was different, and it's still different from a son in high school and a child still playing youth football. However, I've learned to enjoy every minute of football. I have my football mom gear, and I've grown to love every minute of the season.
Are you a cheer or football mom?