Children receive numerous health benefits from sports, including healthy bones and muscles, decreased risk of obesity and lower levels of stress, according to pediatrician William Sears. When children overtrain, however, they are susceptible to a variety of injuries. In some cases, these injuries can interfere with their growth and development. Parents of athletes should encourage their children to enjoy sports, rather than pushing them to play to the point of injury and stress.
Delayed Puberty
Preteens who play sports enter puberty later on average than their peers, according to the textbook "Child Psychology." Scientists are still unsure why this occurs. When children overtrain, puberty can be substantially delayed. Girls frequently stop menstruating. Although children who participate in sports in a healthy way suffer no negative effects from delayed puberty, children who overtrain may have long-term health problems and stunted growth.
Bone Damage
Children who push their bodies too much are vulnerable to broken bones. When these breaks occur along growth plates, growth in the surrounding area may be stunted or dysfunctional, notes Sears. All children who play sports should take precautions to protect their bones, such as wearing helmets, knee pads and protective gear.
Muscle Damage
Muscle sprains, strains and tears are common sports injuries, especially among children who overtrain. When muscles are exerted more than they should be, the tissue becomes weak and vulnerable, increasing the likelihood of injuries, Sears explains. Some muscular injuries can have long-term consequences. Injuries in the back and neck might affect a child's posture, causing further injuries and chronic pain.
Emotional Problems
In "The Frailty Myth," Colette Dowling explains that several studies have demonstrated the positive effect that sports have on children's self-esteem. Children who train excessively, though, suffer the opposite effect. Girls are prone to eating disorders. Both boys and girls may develop body dysmorphic disorder, a condition in which the child feels his muscle mass and body structure is inadequate no matter what he does. Children who spend all of their time training suffer isolation from peers and may also struggle in school, according to "Child Psychology."
References
- "The Portable Pediatrician"; William Sears, M.D., et al.; 2011
- "Child Psychology: Development in a Changing Society"; Robin Harwood, et al.; 2008
- "Health, Safety and Nutrition for the Young Child"; Lynn R. Marotz; 2011
- "The Frailty Myth"; Colette Dowling; 2001
