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Extreme sports for kids are on the rise, with the continuing popularity and more technical tricks and stunts on skateboards and mountain bikes.

But some people worry that kids aren't mentally and physically prepared for this kind of risky play. MPR News host Kerri Miller examines the benefits and of extreme sports for kids.

'I Like Being Afraid': When Kids Fly | The New York Times

A look at the benefits and risks of extreme sports for kids.

Should we let kids participate in extreme sports?


Extreme sports for kids are on the rise, with the continuing popularity of things like skateboarding, rock climbing and mountain biking. But some people worry that kids aren't mentally and physically prepared for this kind of risky play. We'll look at the benefits of extreme sports for kids, and some of the risks, as well.

Guests: Peter Gray is a research professor of psychology at Boston College
Vani Sabesan is an associate professor of orthopedics at Wayne State University
Dr. Mark Mannenbach is the division head of pediatric emergency medicine in the Department of Emergency Medicine at Mayo Clinic Rochester

Kids, extreme sports and risk. What's the right balance?

Go Deeper.

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