The Boston University study found that football players who began playing tackle football before the age of 12 had a significantly higher rate of behavioral and mental function deficits than players who took up the game later in life. The study concluded that, because children’s brains develop at an accelerated rate between the ages of 10 and 12, kids should not begin playing tackle football until they enter their teenage years. The study, reported by the New York Times, was conducted by Dr. Robert Stern ... Log in to view full article.