When does a greenstick fracture typically occur?

A greenstick fracture is characterized by a partial fracture of a bone, where it bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely through on the other. This type of fracture is commonly seen in children due to their developing bones, which are still growing and not fully matured or ossified. The flexibility and softness of children's bones make them more susceptible to this type of injury during activities like falls, play, or other minor trauma. Since their bones have not yet reached the full density and strength of adult bones, they respond to stress differently, often leading to greenstick fractures rather than more complete fractures frequently seen in adults. This context highlights why the answer appropriately connects greenstick fractures to children with bones that are still in the process of developing.