The Power of Play
We are proud to unveil the launch of the Children and Young People's Call to Action on 'The Power of Play'. This initiative is the culmination of extensive global online consultations and focus group discussions involving over 10,000 children.
The United Nations General Assembly has officially endorsed the establishment of an International Day of Play on the 11 June. While the resolution to designate a ’day of play’ marks an important milestone, we acknowledge that the real work lies in translating this symbolic gesture into meaningful action on the ground. Ensuring the meaningful celebration of this day requires sustained commitment and concerted efforts to address the underlying barriers to play faced by children worldwide.
As an organisation deeply committed to the well-being and rights of children, we are honoured to support the Child and Youth Advisory Group in the development of this Call to Action. The Call to Action presents the findings of a global consultation with children and young people on the importance of play and the factors constraining children from playing as much as they would like. Over 10,000 children and young people from all parts of the world participated in an online survey, and hundreds contributed through playful workshops and focus group discussions.
Through our own programs and by listening attentively to the voices of children from diverse backgrounds, we have gained invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of play as perceived by children themselves and their key recommendations to overcome significant barriers to accessing opportunities for play:
• Build and create play-friendly spaces
• Create more time and opportunities for play
• Define what play should look like with children
• Support children in building relationships through play
• Promote wellbeing and happiness through play
In presenting this Call to Action, we echo the voices of children and young people, urging stakeholders at all levels to prioritise play as a fundamental right and catalyst for holistic development.
