For parents
A parent guide to child growth and development in sport
In this guide we discuss the key considerations relating to children’s growth and development that may influence their sport experience. This guide...
All New Zealanders have the right to participate in sport in a safe, fair and inclusive environment.
All young people should receive a quality sport experience, irrespective of the level at which they are involved.
Bold and courageous leadership at national, regional and local levels is required to design and deliver quality youth sport participation and development opportunities.
Aotearoa’s sport sector must work collaboratively to encourage the widest possible change for the wellbeing and sport participation of young New Zealanders.
Sport leaders, coaches, administrators, parents, and caregivers involved in youth sport must collectively lead attitudinal change.
All young people should be offered participation and skill development opportunities.
All young people should be supported to participate in a range of activities and play multiple sports.
Talent Identification should occur later in young people’s development; reviewing the role and nature of national and regional representative selections and tournaments is an important step in ensuring elite sport attitudes and practices are introduced at developmentally appropriate times.
Adults need to proactively monitor and manage the workload (intensity and volume) of motivated young people to mitigate the risks of overtraining and overloading.
New Zealand is a sporting nation; it’s in our DNA. But our world is changing and factors such as societal changes, the role of technology and contention on our time are causing a drop in sport participation in young people.
Start exploring the Balance is Better website for practical resources, case studies and more. It’s the easiest way to keep up with the play.
Remember why young people participate in sport – it’s about fun, the challenge, being part of a team or group, being with friends and self-improvement.