Final Answer:
The total number of children playing softball or basketball is 17 children (Option 4).
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the total number of children playing softball or basketball, we add the counts of children playing each sport. From the options provided, Option 4 states that 17 children play either softball or basketball. Therefore, considering the given choices, the correct count of children engaging in either softball or basketball is 17, as per Option 4.
Understanding the question's context is crucial in identifying the count of children participating in the specified sports. It involves straightforward addition to ascertain the total count from the given options. Each option represents the number of children engaged in playing either softball or basketball. By selecting the option that provides the combined count, we derive the correct total number of children involved in these sports.
Option 4, indicating 17 children, aligns with the total count of children participating in softball or basketball as described in the question. The answer selection involves simple addition by choosing the option that accurately represents the combined number of children engaged in either sport, resulting in 17 children playing softball or basketball, as stated in Option 4.