When young children move past tee-ball and play baseball for the first time, it can be quite intimidating. They are seeing pitched balls for the first time, and might find swinging the correct way difficult. Fielding, throwing, and running the bases is only slightly less difficult. The rules for youth baseball are largely based on safety and giving each child a chance.
Protective Equipment
Children involved at the earliest levels of organized baseball may use a softer, cushioned baseball. This is to help batters who may get hit by a pitched ball, and to protect fielders if a batter hits a hard line drive. The softer ball gives the younger batter a feeling of security that they are not going to get hurt if the ball hits them. All hitters must also wear protective batting helmets every time they come out of the dugout and move into the on-deck circle. They must continue to wear the helmets in the batter's box, and while running the bases. All catchers must wear catcher's masks, chest protector, and shin guards. The catcher must also wear a throat protector that hangs from the bottom rung of the catcher's mask.
Player Participation
One of the key rules in youth baseball involves player participation. According to the official rules of Little League Baseball, all players must play at least two innings in the field, and make at least one plate appearance, in each game. Other youth leagues require three innings in the field, and may allow all players to bat in the lineup. If a player gets one inning in the outfield, he will often get to play the next inning in the infield. This will give the youngster the opportunity to play different positions. However, coaches might not play certain players at positions like pitcher, catcher, and first base if they don't feel the player can protect himself.
Practice Time
While it is important to give youngsters the opportunity to play in games, adequate practice time can be more important when it comes to their development. There should be two or three practices per week prior to the start of the season, and at least one practice per week once the season starts. This is when the children can get the instruction and opportunity they need to get better at baseball. Some players will perform better and understand more during practice sessions, which are conducted without the pressure of games.
Pitching
When 7- and 8-year-olds play baseball, their arms must be protected from the stresses of pitching. This also holds for pitchers who are older, but the youngest pitchers are not allowed to pitch more than 45 pitches in a game. If a youngster throws 26 to 45 pitches, she must rest two calendar days before pitching again. If she throws 11 to 25 pitches, she must rest one calendar day before pitching again.
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