10U (or Squirts) is where most programs will move to full ice, with refs calling penalties, offsides, etc. There is still no checking in 10U but the kids start to learn more about positioning and how to play together in a game. They are still learning and developing their skating (which never ends), stickhandling, shooting, passing, etc.
Games at 10U can be a challenge for kids that are learning more of the rules and positioning, especially early in the season, but it won’t take long for most of them to catch on and thrive. Games are a little more competitive than 8U and there is more room on the ice for the skilled skaters. Most practices will still be small area, station based games as it is important that they continue to develop those skill to stickhandle and maneuver in “tight” spaces.
Caution: There is a tendency for some parents to want to move their kids up to 10U too soon when they are doing well in 8U (and at other age groups). USA Hockey warns against it and some coaches will not allow it in their programs, unless the size and maturity warrants it. USA Hockey put out a video that demonstrates the challenges young kids have with full-ice hockey that puts it into perspective for us adults. It’s worth a watch for any parent of a young hockey player.
