Injuries

This age group of growing athletes is more likely to sustain injuries during school recess or on jungle gyms than in organized sports. One reason is that many organized sports programs are geared to match players by size rather than age. Others adapt how the game is played. T-ball is an example of a team sport that adjusts for the developmental stage of players. Look for football and other sport leagues that adjust to players’ needs to level the playing field.

Another point on the safe side: grade school children do not usually have the strength or speed to cause injuries that are seen during adolescence and early adulthood. Injuries rise with advancing age, weight, and level of competition.