What is the Children’s Annual Meeting?
The Children’s Annual Meeting is an adapted meeting space where children and youth aged 10-12 have the opportunity to express their opinions about their own sports participation while learning the basics of how an organization functions. The format is inspired by the Swedish Skateboarding Federation’s >> early work on children’s participation. The Children’s Annual Meeting is based on the survey conducted within IFK Umeå, which showed that the meeting formats currently available in sports organizations are not appealing or adapted to children’s needs for having their voices heard.
How It Works
During the evening, children and youth share what is important to them and how activities can be developed in a playful and safe manner. The results are compiled into a “Children and Youth Activity Report” and an “Activity Plan/Wish List” for the next season. The meeting is held well in advance of the organization’s regular annual meeting so that children and youth’s input and any motions can be included, AND the children are also encouraged to participate in the regular annual meeting. The evening alternates between games and cooperation exercises to increase safety and a sense of community. Young leaders are present to support the children and take notes on what is discussed. An adult is responsible for compiling and providing feedback on the findings from the evening, both to the children themselves and to the board.
If you would like to try the Children’s Annual Meeting in your organization, support materials are available for download—and watch the video for increased understanding and a sense of the evening!
