For many children and youth, physical recreation is a big part of their recreational activities, with sport often being a major focus. Organized sport and physical recreation takes place in many venues within the community: indoors at the recreation centre or other facilities and outdoors on the playfields.Participating in organized sports may include being a part of various local leagues and teams, and often require travelling to other communities and meeting other young people.
Children and youth’s participation in formal sports programs tends to peak between the ages 10 and 13. As they reach the teenage years, the interests of youth change or broaden beyond organized sports.For example, social activities will garner greater appeal. Child and youth friendly communities provide opportunities for all children and youth to participate in organized sport and physical recreation. They also take steps to ensure that fun, fair play and safety are the overriding principles.
ORGANIZED SPORT & PHYSICAL RECREATION
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UNCRC and ORGANIZED SPORT & PHYSICAL RECREATION
Article 3 is about what is best for children
Adults should always make a decision by considering what is in the best interest of the child.
Article 12 is about the views of the child
Children and young people have a right to participate in all matters affecting them, and those views should be given due weight “in accordance with the age and maturity of the child”.
Article 15 is about having friends
Children and youth have the right to be with friends and join or set up clubs, unless this interferes with the rights of others.
Article 31promotes the benefits of play
Children and youth have the right to play and relax by doing things like sports, music and drama.
Article 42 reminds us to learn about rights
All adults and children should know about this convention. Children and youth have a right to learn about their rights and adults should learn about them too.
"Sport has the power to change the world…it has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair."
~ Nelson Mandela, Former President of South African
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