Should Kids Strength Train?

One question I've been asked countless times over the years is the following: "Does strength training stunt growth in kids?"  My answer is- and will always be- absolutely not, assuming the individual is performing exercises with proper technique and under the supervision of a qualified instructor.  

I was so incredibly fortunate enough to study under one of the world's top experts on youth strength & conditioning, Dr. Avery Faigenbaum (http://hes.pages.tcnj.edu/faculty-profiles/avery-faigenbaum-2/).  He taught all of his students one major rule when it comes to children and strength training: there is no set chronological age at which a child can begin strength training.  It's the age when a child is emotionally ready to accept and follow direction.....simple as that.  For some kids, this may be age 8, and for others, age 15.  It's all relative.