PlayBoard's Play Manifesto
Events » PlayBoard's Play Manifesto
Friday 2nd April 2010
Playboard Petitions Political Parties to Prioritise Play
PlayBoard, the lead agency for the promotion of children and young people’s play in Northern Ireland, will launch its Play Manifesto on Tuesday 30 March (4pm), at the Long Gallery, Stormont.
Speaking in advance of the launch, which is sponsored by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, Jacqueline O’Loughlin, Chief Executive of PlayBoard, said:
“Play is a surprisingly simple solution to what appear to be complex problems! Play is an innate drive. By prioritising play, we can tackle a myriad of social issues in a simple and natural way. Furthermore, the positive developmental aspects of play assist children in being strong, competent and better equipped to meet the challenges of everyday life."
“As the delivery of services and quality experiences for children, young people and families’ moves to the heart of the political agenda, play needs to be recognised and understood. The right to play is fundamental for every child in Northern Ireland.”
"Angela Stallard, PlayBoard’s Senior Advocacy Officer continues: “Since PlayBoard’s establishment in 1985, we have campaigned, lobbied, raised awareness and developed partnerships aimed at putting play on the agenda of policy makers and resource providers throughout NI."
“Through this manifesto we are now calling on all of our political parties to pledge support in five key areas and in doing so recognise the cross-cutting benefits of play and its potential to positively impact across social policy agenda.”
Welcoming the Play Manifesto, Maria Gough, Principal, Saint Joseph’s Primary School, Lisburn added: “Play is a hugely powerful tool when children are given the freedom to follow their own ideas and interests, in their own way and for their own reasons. Through play, children can explore the world around them and make meaning of it for their own lives. Play combines learning with life experiences.”
The launch will be attended by children and young people, Government representatives, social development policy makers, school leaders, local authorities and community groups.
PlayBoard calls on anyone with an interest in the development of children’s play to endorse the Play Manifesto by clicking here and following the link.
Copies of the Play Manifesto can be downloaded click here or call PlayBoard on 02890 803380 to request a copy.
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