It's a sobering fact that more than 200,000 children are injured on America's playgrounds each year.

Hi, I'm Dr. John Hellerstedt with the children's health minute presented by this station and TexCare -- connecting Texas families with children's health insurance for 18 dollars a month or less.

A playground should be a safe place for kids to exercise and play.

To keep playtime fun and to protect your kids, here are some tips: Always supervise your children and make sure they dress for safe play-that means no drawstrings, ropes or ribbons that can catch on equipment.

Playground surfaces should cushion falls and jumping-appropriate surfaces are pea gravel, sand or rubber mats. Check for hazards such as protruding bolts, sharp edges and loose equipment. Report any problems you find to the playground owner or manager.

Keep your kids healthy. Call TexCare at 1-800-647-6558 to apply or when it's time to renew your children's health care coverage. That's 1-800-647-6558.