RESOURCES FOR PARENTS

Parents, we’re looking out for you! We’ve collected these resource links covering topics you care about. We hope you find them helpful, but remember: Nothing takes the place of a consultation with your child’s pediatrician! This list is by no means exhaustive, and FCAAP assumes no responsibility for content on linked sites.

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With the implementation of Florida’s Second Chance Act, public high school students participating in school athletics are now required to receive a one-time electrocardiogram (ECG) screening as part of the athletic preparticipation process. To support parents, FCAAP offers the resources below on ECG information, academic requirements, and screening locations.

FCAAP ECG RESOURCES FOR PARENTS

What is an ECG and what does it screen for?

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a quick, painless test that records the heart’s electrical activity using small adhesive sensors placed on the chest, arms, and legs. The test usually takes only a few minutes. An ECG may help identify conditions associated with sudden cardiac arrest, including:

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
  • Long QT syndrome
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
  • Brugada syndrome
  • Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy
  • Certain electrical rhythm abnormalities

An ECG cannot detect every heart condition and does not guarantee that a student athlete has no underlying heart disease.

Does my child need an ECG?

Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, most students entering high school sports in Florida will need a one-time ECG before participating in their first FHSAA-sanctioned sport. Students who begin participating for the first time in grades 10 – 2 must also complete an ECG before they are eligible to participate. If a student had an ECG on or after July 1, 2024, this will satisfy the requirement. Schools and healthcare providers may recommend completing the ECG well before sports seasons begin to allow adequate time for follow-up if needed.

An ECG can help identify certain heart conditions that may increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest during exercise. While most student athletes are healthy, some heart conditions have no symptoms and may not be detected during a routine sports physical.

An ECG is intended to supplement, not replace, the preparticipation physical examination.
Early identification allows many conditions to be managed safely through additional evaluation, treatment, or participation recommendations.

Students must complete their ECG before participating in FHSAA athletic activities.

FHSAA Forms and Guidance:

More ECG Information:

Where can I find screening events or locations?

ECGs may be available through:

  • Your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider
  • Pediatric cardiology practices
  • Hospital-sponsored screening events
  • Community heart screening organizations
  • School-sponsored screening events (where available)
  • Your school district, pediatrician, and Who We Play For can help identify local screening opportunities.

Screening Resources:

Is there a cost?

Costs vary depending on where the ECG is performed.
Some insurance plans may cover the ECG when ordered by a healthcare provider. Community screening events and local hospital systems may offer reduced-cost or free screenings. Families should contact their healthcare provider or insurance company to determine coverage.

What happens if my child has an abnormal ECG?

An abnormal ECG does not necessarily mean your child has heart disease.

Many ECG findings in young athletes are normal adaptations to exercise. If an ECG requires additional evaluation, your child’s healthcare provider may recommend referral to a pediatric cardiologist for further testing, which could include:

  • Repeat ECG
  • Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
  • Exercise stress testing
  • Holter monitor
  • Additional specialized testing if needed

ECG FAQ Resource:

Can my child play sports while waiting for follow-up?

This depends on the reason for the abnormal ECG. Many students can continue participating while additional evaluation is underway, while others may be temporarily restricted until a pediatric cardiologist determines it is safe to participate.

According to the FHSAA, if the ECG requires further evaluation, the student must be cleared by a licensed medical practitioner trained in the diagnosis, evaluation and management of ECGs before participating in FHSAA athletic competition, practice, tryouts, or workouts.

Parents should never ignore recommendations for follow-up evaluation.

Quick Educational Videos:

As a parent, keeping your child safe is always a top priority. FCAAP has trusted tips and tools to help protect your child in three important areas: car seats, water safety, and safe sleep. Whether you’re driving with your child, spending time near water, or putting your baby down to rest, these resources will help you make safe choices every day. With Florida’s warm weather and active lifestyle, knowing how to prevent injuries and accidents is one of the best ways to keep your family healthy and happy.

flynn's safety tips for parents

Car Seats

Florida law requires the use of seat belts or child restraint devices by drivers of motor vehicles, all front seat passengers, and all children riding in a vehicle under 18. When children are properly placed in car seats, their chances of serious injury during a car accident is significantly decreased. It’s important to know the recommended size and type of seat is best for your child as they grow. Below are a few resources to help you ensure your child is riding in the right seat and is as safe as possible in your motor vehicle.

Water Safety

Water can be fun for kids, but it also comes with risks. As a parent, it’s important to know how to keep your child safe around pools, lakes, and other bodies of water. These resources offer simple tips and best practices to help prevent accidents and make water play safer for your whole family.

Safe Sleep

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your baby safe—even while they sleep. These helpful resources will provide you with simple but important things you can do to create a safe sleep space and lower the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). With the right information, you can rest easier knowing you’re giving your baby the safest start possible.

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Kids and Families in Florida are hungry. More than 22% of children in Florida live in a “food insecure” household meaning there is not enough food in the house for every member of the family. If you or someone you know is struggling with hunger and food insecurity we can help!

We have provided you with 4 main resources that will help you access healthy and nutritious foods for your family immediately. Remember to always speak with your Pediatrician. A doctor can help you find programs that provide healthy food for you and your family. Click here – REACH 4 Help to learn and apply for no cost food and nutrition programs in your area..

Suicide can be a difficult and painful topic, but support and resources are available for parents navigating this challenging journey. Whether you’re concerned about your child’s well-being, seeking guidance on suicide prevention, or coping with loss, this page provides essential information, crisis support, and resources to help.

Suicide Resources For Parents / Caregivers

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After a suicide attempt or a loss

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Public Charge Resources

The public charge rule went into effect on February 24, 2020.

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Covid-19 Resources

Below is FCAAP’s compilation of resource materials for parents on the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This list is updated as new information becomes available.

COVID-19 Vaccine for Children and Teens: What to Know

The authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for ages 5 and older is a vital step in bringing lifesaving vaccines to children and adolescents. You’ve got plenty of questions. The internet has loads of answers. Unfortunately, though, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. For reliable, evidence-based information, turn to your child’s doctor. Pediatricians just like yours have dedicated their time to answer parents’ most pressing questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, you will find credible information that you can trust right here from pediatricians about COVID-19.

AAP’s Updated Recommendations for Face Masks for Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the continued use of a well-fitting face mask for children and teens who are age 2 years and older and not yet fully vaccinated. You can read their full recommendations here, and review additional helpful articles from HealthyChildren.org below.

From FCAAP:

From AAP’s HealthyChildren.org:

Additional Resources:

COVID-19 and Legal Aid and Resources for the Public

For additional COVID-19 resources, visit FCAAP’s provider resource page.

The information provided on this page is subject to change without notice based upon new information, resources, and directives from federal, state, and local authorities and medical experts. While FCAAP will do its best to update information that has been changed due to the issuance of new guidance and directives, there will be a delay in such updates and we cannot guarantee that all information will be updated to reflect such changes. This information is provided only as general guidance and is not being offered as a medical or legal opinion.

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Las sugerencias siguientes se han creado para servir como un recurso o referencia para usted. Esta lista es de ninguna manera exhaustiva y el FPS/FCAAP no puede asumir ninguna responsabilidad del contenido en sitios ligados. Si usted tiene algunas preguntas o preocupaciones por alguna información contenida aquí, hable por favor con su pediatra o su dentista pediátrico.

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El programa Vaccines for Children

Familias de bajos ingresos pueden ser elegibles para vacunas a costo reducido o sin costo a través de el programa Vaccines for Children. Para más información, haga clic aquí.

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