In middle to late winter, probably in the midst of a snow, rain, or ice storm, you found yourself filling out registration forms for the impending spring season of your daughter’s chosen sport. Although practice seems months away, now is a good time to prepare for her spring activities so you won’t have to rush around a week before the season begins.

This becomes more important with the more children you have involved in activities, or the number of activities your one or more children may be involved in.

Here are a few ideas to help alleviate the last minute rush to preparedness.

Bag It

You both need a bag. There should be a bag for her equipment. It should always be ready to go. As she gets it ready for spring she needs to see if she has outgrown any of her equipment. This will give you ample time to check out the sale papers for deals at the sporting goods stores.

When the season begins have your daughter check it twice before her practices and games. Since she may practice at home or with friends she will need to make sure that she has returned her equipment to the bag after the last time she used it.

As parents we need a bag handy for all the extras we carry to a game or practice. Extra water and snacks…can you say overtime? A first aid kit could be helpful along with extra money for the snack bar if necessary. Essentially anything that might get misplaced from your daughter’s bag could be included in your bag, with the exception of equipment. You have to draw the line somewhere.

Water

Have water bottles handy. Save all the freebees handed out at community functions. Test them out to make sure they are not leaking. Some plastic water bottles dry out and crack. Repeated dishwasher cleaning may melt them slightly and then they don’t seal like they used to. There is nothing worse than wet equipment.

Chill them in advance of a game. If the bottles can be frozen, fill a few up halfway the evening before a game. Then fill with water before heading out. This ensures the water is cold after a few hours of play on the field. It is a hard thing to consider as most sports start out in the spring, but they usually finish close to summer. If you live in a hot climate that water bottle is essential. Look for deals on bottled water to stock up on if that is your preference.

Suntan Lotion & Raingear

Another necessary item that you don’t think about out of season is suntan lotion. Have a bottle in both bags. Also, it is not always sunny when games are played so prepare for wind and rain. Include a hat and some cheapo sunglasses in case you walk out the door forgetting them.

Consider Siblings

The parent bag is also required to carry entertainment for the potentially bored sibling. Small novelty toys, paper and crayons, a kid’s magazine, anything that you know will keep them occupied if they get bored is handy. It is tempting to take them to the playground but then you might miss the game. Try to get them involved for a while so they can learn about supporting others.

Don’t Forget the Vehicle

In addition to the two bags, the transport vehicle becomes equipped with the folding chairs and lawn blanket for non-arena sports. It is handy to have a more comfortable place to sit than on the ground. Sometimes seating is limited depending on which field your team gets assigned to. Add extra water bottles to the mix and you’re doubly prepared in the event you or your daughter runs short on water.

Don’t Miss Out on a Learning Opportunity

Get your daughter involved in the process and it will help keep her mindful of being prepared and organized. Her age will determine how much she can be involved in the process. Between 9 and 11 years old you’ll start to notice how they will take charge in the decision making process. Encourage this; help them make good decisions on how to incorporate activities into their school schedule.

I’m not an advocate of overloaded schedules but when they voice their interest in the things they want to do we can help them see if it can be done. A little thought, some trial and error and we soon are reminded of what makes us proud of our little girls.

Now, let’s get ready to play some ball!