Palatine Forum Explores Pros, Cons of Children Specializing in Sports

The Palatine Park District will be hosting a workshop next week that focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of children specializing in sports at an early age.

The workshop on Feb. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Cutting Hall Performance Center, 150 E. Wood St., is meant for parents and coaches. Speakers will include Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz, a former NFL Pro Bowl star; an orthopedic surgeon; and a child psychologist, according to the Daily Herald.

The workshop will focus on the advantages and disadvantages of early sports specialization including the impact on a young athlete’s physical, psychological, social, emotional, and athletic development. The speakers will look at what science and experience currently tell us about potential outcomes, and will discuss practical ways of optimizing youth success both on and off the field.

The event is free but reservations are requested as limited space is available. Tickets are available here.