The ASPEN Institutes Children's Bill of Rights in Sports is a framework developed by the ASPEN Institute's Project Play initiative as well as leading human rights and sports policy experts that outlines 8 key rights that ensure that e
very child has the right to play sports in a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment that helps them reach their full potential.
Read More HereBelow are the 8 key rights outlined by the Bill:
- To play sports.
Organizations should make every effort to accommodate children’s interests to participate, and to help them play with peers from diverse backgrounds. - To safe and healthy environments.
Children have the right to play in settings free from all forms of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), hazing, violence, and neglect. - To qualified program leaders.
Children have the right to play under the care of coaches and other adults who pass background checks and are trained in key competencies. - To developmentally appropriate play.
Children have a right to play at a level commensurate with their physical, mental and emotional maturity, and their emerging athletic ability. They should be treated as young people first, athletes second. - To share in the planning and delivery of their activities.
Children have the right to share their viewpoints with coaches and for their insights to be incorporated into activities. - To an equal opportunity for personal growth.
Programs should invest equally in all child athletes, free of discrimination based on any personal or family characteristic. - To be treated with dignity.
Children have the right to participate in environments that promote the values of sportsmanship, of respect for opponents, officials, and the game. - To enjoy themselves.
Children have the right to participate in activities they consider fun, and which foster the development of friendships and social bonds.
Project SPARK, in collaboration with the Aspen Institute's Project Play initiative and the Madison Area YMCA, hopes to build support for the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports within local communities, with the eventual goal of securing its endorsement in New Jersey through the support of Governor Mikie Sherrill. Your vote will help demonstrate community support and strengthen our case. If you would like to support the endorsement of the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports in New Jersey, please vote below! (One vote per parent)
