OPT FOR VARIETY
Encourage your kids to switch from one sport to another during the year.
Be sure to choose activities that don't stress the same muscles and
joints
TAKE A BREAK
Children who focus on a single sport need to take three months to
recover, even if they're uninjured. The temptation to play year round is
often great in sunny places like Texas and California
CHECK OUT THE COACH
The best ones have an easy relationship with parents and children and
know which drills minimize the risk of injury
DON'T FORGET THE CORE
Strengthening muscles involved in maintaining balance can avoid many
problems
BE AWARE
Pain plus tenderness over a joint is often a sign of an overuse injury.
Any pain that lingers or interferes with performance should be evaluated
by a doctor