Pop Warner, the country’s largest youth football organization, will ban kickoffs in games starting this fall, the latest attempt to reduce the risk of head blows that can lead to concussions.

Stung by declining enrollment, high-profile lawsuits and unflattering conduct by some of its teams, Pop Warner will be the first major youth league to take a step that has even been considered by the N.F.L.

The elimination of kickoffs will apply to the three youngest Pop Warner divisions, which include players between 5 and 10 years old. The ball will be placed at the 35-yard-line at the beginning of each half and after each score.

Pop Warner will review the results and could apply the rule change to older age groups next year.

“We are constantly working to make the game safer and better for our young athletes, and we think this move is an important step in that direction,” said Jon Butler, Pop Warner’s executive director. “Eliminating kickoffs at this level adds another layer of safety without changing the nature of this great game.”