As kids grow up, it's healthy and fun for them to compete in sports such as soccer, baseball, basketball, gymnastics, football and even extreme sports, including mountain biking, BMX and skateboarding. But while all that physical activity is beneficial for growing bodies, there is the chance of getting hurt. Consider your child's age when assessing whether their activities could hurt them. The old adage, "The bigger they are, the harder they fall" definitely applies when it comes to kids, particularly those in contact sports like football. As they age, children obviously get larger and better able to inflict harm, albeit accidentally. And football is the number-one sport for injuries in kids under the age of 18, followed by basketball. Up to two thirds of injuries are sprains and strains, while fractures make up only about 5 percent of sports injuries. Other aches and pains that arise may be a result of overuse, which occur when a certain movement is repeated.

Lower back pain, shin splints and even "little league" elbow - a result of repeated throwing - can arise. Kids who get hurt need to heal completely or risk reinjury when they return to the field. Be sure she's been cleared by a doctor and is completely healthy before resuming activity if your child is hurt. To prevent injuries, be sure the activity is supervised by trained adults or coaches. Match the activity and team with your child's size and skill level before she begins, and have the pediatrician clear her for the activity. Head, eye and other bodily injuries can be prevented with the right protective equipment. Be sure the playing surface is cleared of debris and other impediments before play begins. And as you would while working out, be sure the team has a warm-up and cool-down period to condition muscles for play.