Organized sports for children and preadolescents

Participation in organized sports provides an opportunity for young people to increase their physical activity and develop physical and social skills. However, when the demands and expectations of organized sports exceed the maturation and readiness of the participant, the positive aspects of partic ipation can be negated. The nature of parental or adult involvement can als o influence the degree to which participation in organized sports is a posi tive experience for preadolescents. This updates a previous policy statemen t on athletics for preadolescents and incorporates guidelines for sports pa rticipation for preschool children. Recommendations are offered on how pedi atricians can help determine a child's readiness to participate, how risks can be minimized, and how child-oriented goals can be maximized.