Department Resources

Children's Bill of Rights in Sports

Youth sports leaders together with children participants. Every child deserves the opportunity to participate in sports in an environment that is safe, supportive, inclusive and focused on their development and well-being.

In May 2022, NCS and the Fairfax County Athletic Council – in alignment with the One Fairfax initiative – adopted the Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports. This framework was developed by the Aspen Institute through its Project Play initiative in collaboration with a working group of human rights and sports policy experts.

The framework identifies eight fundamental rights that organizations can use to examine their programs, policies and practices and consider how they are creating positive experiences for every young athlete:

Organizations should make every effort to accommodate children’s interests to participate, and to help them play with peers from diverse backgrounds.

Children have the right to play in settings free from all forms of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), hazing, violence, and neglect.

Children have the right to play under the care of coaches and other adults who pass background checks and are trained in key competencies.

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.

Children have the right to share their viewpoints with coaches and for their insights to be incorporated into activities.

Programs should invest equally in all child athletes, free of discrimination based on any personal or family characteristic.

Children have the right to participate in environments that promote the values of sportsmanship, of respect for opponents, officials, and the game.

Children have the right to participate in activities they consider fun, and which foster the development of friendships and social bonds.

💪 Make the Commitment!

NCS invites Fairfax County youth sports organizations and partners to adopt the eight rights as guiding principles for their programs and demonstrate how those principles are reflected in the experiences they provide for children and families.

Ready to make the commitment? Learn how your organization can join NCS and make the commitment to youth athletes in Fairfax County:

Make the Commitment

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Department Resources

Children's Bill of Rights in Sports

1. To play sports.

2. To safe and healthy environments.

3. To qualified program leaders.

4. To developmentally appropriate play.

5. To share in the planning and delivery of their activities.

6. To an equal opportunity for personal growth.

7. To be treated with dignity.

8. To enjoy themselves.

💪 Make the Commitment!

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