Playing Baseball W/grown Ups

Do they have to do the fast pitch. I know a lot of the teams around where I live use the big 16 inch ball so it's not as hard. Would they be able to switch to that. I do agree that a child and adult hit differently. I would not let the 10 year old play if it was me unless they changed the ball. I guess the other question also is where in the field is he playing. If it's so right field, and not many people hit that way, maybe you can let him play, and tell them that when the pitch to him, it has to be a slow. they can still do the wind up, but they can adjust the speed, so it doens't look like he is getting special treatments at all.

I would still vote for not palying though.

Family games are SO FUN! Just discuss the safety concerns to your son so he's as aware as he can be and let him play. I'm sure all of the other adults will be keeping an eye on him. If he wants to play let him. If he was afraid then I'd say don't make him play. Being a helecopter mom (too much hovering) can often times squealch a childs spirit, imagination and self esteem.

Have him where his helmet both batting and in the field. Let him play. We have always had big get-togethers and the whole family played...from about 5 years and older. I am sure they will pitch slower to him.

they can't slow pitch to the 10 year old?
family games are for family. yes, sometimes people get hurt, but family games should be friendly and flexible enough that it's rare, and that kids can be accommodated. i wouldn't make my kids miss out on that sort of precious family fun.
khairete
S.

That's a tough one. Do other kids play, or is your son the only one? I agree, one 10 year old among a group of all men is probably not a good idea. I watch how the men play indoor soccer and it's pretty rough.

However, if there are girls, or other kids, that's different. It's not clear from your post.

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Tough question. This is a family gathering and a nice activity. Let your son decide whether or not he is willing to play or not. Ask him how he feels about the situation. I'm sure he must be thrilled to be involved in an activity with adults. This can be a great self-esteem booster. Mom's are always worried about their babies getting hurt and they always seem so fragile in our eyes. Reality is he can get hurt ANYWHERE and anytime. There is no way to fully protect them from ALL harm. Don't let your motherly worries set your child's development back. Discuss precautions with him and enjoy these days together. Who knows what time will be left in the future for family outings?
Enjoy each other!

Let him play!!! If you are really concerned buy a safety helmet for him to wear on his head while out in the field. And yes, getting hit by a ball that is hit or thrown can hurt. I had my glasses busted and stitches above my eye from being hit by a ball that was thrown. That's all a part of life. Do you let him ride in your car? If so, why? There is a chance that someone could hit you or you could wreck and he would be hurt or killed. Do you let him take a bath or shower? Why? There is a chance he could fall and be hurt. See where I'm going with this. You have to let him take chances and live life.

I know what you're saying. I'm betting the pitches aren't the real issue--it's more the danger when he's in the field, right? The biggest danger when kids play baseball is when they're on the field (especially the infield) and not paying attention to the batter and "wham!" the ball hits them. Is your son "into it"? Is he alert and actively following the game? If so, he'll most likely be ok.