School sports provide kids with an array of benefits, including emotional, physical and social. The worst thing that can happen with kids playing sports is sustaining injuries. The good news is that as parents, there are some things we can do to help prevent sports injuries from occurring.

Getting a physical examination is crucial– Before the sports season begins, ensure your child has a complete physical examination. This will help to ensure that they are physically able to participate in sports activities. The physical exam should include blood pressure and heart rate stats, joint and muscle examination and medical history review.

Resting is a top priority– If your child participates in school sports, it is important to ensure that they take breaks during practices and games. This will help to prevent overuse injuries, including Achilles tendinitis, pitching elbow and shin splints. Also, your child should take a couple of days off each week from sports-related activities.

Stretching and warming up are essential- Before each practice and game, your little athlete needs to warm-up and stretch to release muscle tension and to help prevent any injuries. They should engage in activities such as brisk walking or jumping jacks, followed by some stretches.

Staying hydrated is important- Sports athletes are at risk for heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is the result of the body overheating, causing heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. Sports athletes are also at risk for dehydration, the result of the body losing more fluids than it is taking in. One of the ways to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration is to make sure your child drinks at least 8-10 ounces of water at least 30 minutes before each practice and each game. Also, they should drink this same amount roughly every 20 minutes during each practice and game.

Helmets are a must- One of the most important pieces of sports equipment is a helmet. A helmet is designed to help prevent concussions and other head injuries. Most sports require the use of a helmet for all players, including baseball, football, hockey and softball. Sports helmets should comply with the regulations that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).