The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these recommendations to help young athletes stay safe:

• Make sure your child is fit enough to play his or her chosen sport.
• Your child should understand and follow the rules of the sport.
• Your child should always wear protective equipment, -- including a helmet, shin guards, etc. -- as appropriate for the sport.
• Teach your child how to properly use and adjust the equipment.
• Teach your child to always warm up appropriately.
• Your child should never be allowed to play sports when he or she is extremely tired or in some kind of pain.

-- Diana Kohnle