Children's participation in sports can improve fitness, increase coordination and promote self-discipline. Athletics can also increase a sense of personal satisfaction, accomplishment and self-esteem. However, great interest and growth in organized sports has equated to an increase in sports- and recreation-related injuries.

Nearly three quarters of U.S. households with school-aged children have a least one child who plays organized sports. In 2002, among children ages five to 14 treated in hospital emergency departments:

• Nearly 188,000 were treated for football-related injuries.
• More than 76,000 were treated for soccer-related injuries.
• More than 21,000 were treated for gymnastics-relayed injuries.
• More that 11,000 were treated for cheerleading-related injuries.
• More than 2,000 were treated for field hockey-related injuries.
• More that 300 were treated for rugby-related injuries.

Here are a few more tips for parents to help ensure their kids are properly prepared for sports activities:

Get Ready!

• Before the season begins, my kids gradually increase their activity level and have regular check-ups with their doctor.
• My kids understand the basic skills of the sport before they get into the game.
• My kids drink plenty of fluids before, during and after playing sports and eat a well-balanced diet.
• My child's coach and athletic trainer have a list of emergency contacts, just in case an emergency occurs.
• When I carpool, I make sure all the children are properly restrained in my vehicle.

Get Set!

• My kids warm up and stretch before playing the game.
• My kids always wear the right, properly fitted protective gear.
• Field surfaces are inspected prior to play.
• My kids play under the supervision of a coach a certified athletic trainer.

• My kids are properly supervised at all times.
• My kids take regular rest breaks at practice and at the game.
• My kids do not "play through" an injury.
• Parents, coaches and players always practice good sportsmanship and play by the rules.

For more information, please call Safe Kids Mid-South, headquartered at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, at (901) 287-6730.