Getting started at an early age can be a big advantage. It also can ruin a potential wrestler if not handled correctly. All kids are different. Some can become passionate about wrestling at an early age and work hard all through childhood. Clearly these kids benefit from wrestling early and will be the best as time goes on. Others can be pushed too hard too long. It is important, to not push kids into wrestling without taking the proper steps to build their interest and make them feel good about wrestling. It is especially important to be encouraging and help them deal with defeat in a positive manner or you may lose a wrestler before they have a chance to develop. Listen to the kid and respond accordingly!