Sprains, strains, contusions, fractures, concussions - experts say these and other injures are on the rise among our sports-obsessed kids.

And it's not just the tough-guy games that are to blame. While football injuries have climbed 43 percent in the last decade among 7- to18-year olds, cheerleading is a close second with a 38 percent increase.

To prevent injury, experts recommend limiting playing and practicing to 12 hours a week in any one sport or 20 hours per week for multiple sports; anything more and your kids should be supervised by a sports doctor. Workouts should proceed slowly, with increases in time, distance or intensity not exceeding 10 percent during a week.

Parents can't afford to sit on the sidelines when it comes to kids' safety. Help yours avoid injuries by doing the following:

Take them for a physical. Do this before they start any sport, preferably with a pediatric sports specialist. He can administer specific tests to pinpoint weaknesses - and suggest appropriate exercise or precautions.

Check up on your child's coaches or trainers. Make sure they've had formal training in sports safety or that someone who has is always present during games and practice.

Insist that your child pace herself. Once your kid takes up a single sport, insist that she vary her weekly activities. Experts advise taking one or two days off from a competitive game or practice every week and at least two months off from a specific sport each year.

For more tips, pick up the latest issue of Family Circle magazine or visit

www.familycircle.com.