Yes, yes and yes. In Bantam, kids are learning to check and the majority of the hits are to the head, late or "charging". Very few are called. This IS the age it should be called. "It's all part of hockey" they say.
2/2 This would immediately make the game safer without any impact on play. There is no reason to hit someone away from a play. The NFL doesn't allow a defensemen to tee off on a QB after the throw. Why does the NHL allow players to assault each other away from the play.