Are all soccer cleats created equally?

Unless your child is playing on a wet field with high grass, and needs the added traction, avoid soccer shoes with screw-in cleats. These cleats lead to a higher rate of injury, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Molded soccer cleats or ribbed soles are kinder to children's growing bodies. back to top At what age can my child begin to play soccer? Even though your child may kick a soccer ball in his or her playpen like a pro, most organized programs for the physically demanding sport do not begin until children turn four or five years of age. back to top How common are injuries among children who play soccer? Each year, medical professionals treat more than 227,000 injuries related to soccer among children 15 and younger, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Treating these injuries cost $2.9 billion in 1998, a price tag that includes medical and legal expenses. Because it is among the fastest-growing team sports in the nation, experts ...  more