Pediatrics - Sports Safety Sports Safety Participating in sports is great for children both physically and psychologically.
Sports can increase a child s physical coordination, fitness, and self-esteem.
In addition, sports can teach children about teamwork and self-discipline. However, because children s bodies are still growing and their coordination is still developing, children are more susceptible to sports injuries. Approximately 3.5 million children ages 14 and under are treated for sports-related injuries each year. Half of all of those injuries can be prevented with proper use of safety gear, changes to the playing environment, and the establishment of sports rules that help prevent injuries. The playing environment should be safe.