Gear

• Even if they are not playing tackle football, kids should wear helmets, knee and elbow pads, cleats and a mouth guard. Boys also should wear protective cups.
  
  

Warm-up

• Kids should warm up for at least 15 minutes before playing football to help prevent muscle injuries. Jumping jacks, running and stretching are good ways to get ready.
  
  

Rules

• Every child needs to know the rules of play before engaging in football. What's fair and what's not should be stressed, so as to avoid surprises--knowing what to expect from other players reduces the chances of injuries.
  
  

When Not to Play

• A pre-existing injury won't necessarily stop a child from trying to play, but it should. Playing a game while injured will virtually guarantee more injury. The same goes for illness: a sick or healing child is a vulnerable one on the football field.
  
  

Courtesy

• Although not a part of the formal rules, courtesy can play a big role in preventing injuries. Good sportsmanship fosters the same in others, making it less likely that tempers will flare, fights will occur and injuries result.