Message to parents — let kids be kids


Released 25/07/2017

Today I joined with Sex Discrimination Commissioner and Co-chair of the Play by the Rules organisation Kate Jenkins and co-head coach of the GIANTS netball team Sharon Hill to support a new national campaign to let kids be kids when playing sport.

The Let Kids Be Kids campaign is all about kids playing and enjoying sport without the need for extra pressure from the sidelines, the grandstands or at home.

The campaign sends messages direct from children to their parents – reminding them that kids want to play sport because they love playing with friends, trying their hardest and being active outside.

We’ve all seen when parents or spectators go a bit far in their support – maybe we’ve done it ourselves.

It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of the competition but it’s important that parents understand their words have an impact.

While this behaviour isn’t usually malicious, it rubs off on players and children and it’s a culture we should all be working to change.

Let Kids Be Kids will encourage this more and more with resources to help sports at all levels, from juniors through to elite levels.

Local clubs can go online, share the great videos and also look at bringing in some simple requirements for behaviour at their home grounds – sometimes a simple message over the PA can go a long way.

It’s been great to see a number of ACT sports bodies leading the way in encouraging good spectator behaviour and setting their expectations for players and supporters and I hope to see this continue in 2017.

Since I became minister I have consistently said that our sports should welcome all regardless of age, ability, gender, culture or class and this campaign takes another positive step in that direction.

I encourage sporting organisations and schools to get behind the campaign and hope to see some change happening on Canberra’s sports fields and courts this coming winter season.

Download the free toolkit at www.playbytherules.net.au.

- Statement ends -

Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases

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