Growth spurts can be a big issue for some children.
They have a disorientating affect on their sporting activities and make them more susceptible to injury.
When do they strike?
Girls tend to have growth spurts between the ages of seven and 12, while boys typically experience growth spurts later - usually from 10 to 14.
But every child is unique and develops at a different rate.
What's happening?
During a growth spurt a child's bones grow first and fast and their muscles and tendons become inflexible as they get stretched tight until they catch up.
The child's longer limbs, bigger feet and lack of muscular structure can often lead to a loss in co-ordination.
And there's a greater tendency to be injury-prone.
Useful precautions
Where injuries hit
In particular watch out for nagging heel or knee injuries and inflammations.
Late developers
Some kids may be at a disadvantage physically if they are late maturers.
But keep up the words of encouragement.
Late developers can still go on to have excellent sporting experiences.
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