Pre-teens and teens benefit both physically and mentally from participating in sports. But it can be frustrating to be sidelined with an injury, especially if that injury could have been prevented.

Top Safety Tips

1. Before playing organized sports, make sure your child receives a pre-participation physical exam, or PPE, performed by a doctor, or a nurse practitioner or qualified clinician under the supervision of a physician. Whomever performs the exam, the same practices should be followed including the need for a medical history.
2. Encourage children to drink water before, during and after athletic activities or play.
3. Warming up and stretching before play can release muscle tension and help prevent sports-related injuries, such as muscle tears or sprains.
4. An off-season is important. It is recommended that kids get 10 consecutive weeks of rest from any one sport every year.
5.  Make sure your coach is trained in first aid and CPR , and understands how to prevent, recognize and/or respond to concussions and overuse injuries.

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