The Nestlé Games is a track and field competition that addresses several challenges identified through observations and dialogue with young people and adults in sports, as well as through research. This shows:
- that many children do not want to or dare to compete
- that children are rarely involved in competitive contexts
- that there are difficulties in engaging parents as volunteers
The Nestlé Games is a track and field competition created by children, for children. By allowing the children themselves to plan a competition and focusing on participation rather than results, a more inclusive competitive environment is created.
The children have decided:
- which events are included (traditional and/or invented for the games)
- which music is played
- which refreshments are sold
- whether there should be an announcer
- which prizes are awarded
This is not about winning, but about:
- daring to try competing
- trying many events—by collecting as many stickers as possible
- having fun together
Parents serve as officials and help during the competition. This is important for introducing parents to the role of official.
