Should Kids Be Allowed To Play Sports

According to ESPN, there are currently around 2.1 million kids between the ages of six and seventeen in the United States that are currently involved in competitive sports. With so many kids playing sports at a competitive level, the question has arisen as to whether or not kids should be allowed to play sports. Many of these kids are extremely dedicated and committed athletes, and work relentlessly towards a set goal. They may sustain a multitude of injuries throughout their careers, and will even play through pain. With the numbers of sports-related injuries accumulating, many parents have become concerned for their child’s safety. Even though some people are worried about the possibility of their child being injured, sports should be allowed because they support social development, are a fundamental part of growing up, and help keep kids in good physical condition. …show more content…
In a recent article titled “The Pros and Cons of Competitive Sports at a High School Level”, the author mentions that team sports are an important part of school culture. It teaches healthy lifestyles, how to accept criticism, handle the pressure of competition, work hard to reach a goal, and how to win and lose graciously. Its participants learn how to work together in a group, and how to encourage others and be competitive. Athletes learn how to accept constructive criticism and to improve gradually by building up their repertoire of skills and techniques. Sports can also give an athlete a heightened sense of being part of something larger, and that they are doing something that matters, says Grace Chen, the author of “The Pros and Cons of Sports Competition at a High School