To mark the International Day of Play on 11 June, PlayBoard NI, the lead organisation for the development of play, and the International Play Association Northern Ireland branch (IPA NI) have published a new report, Playing Out – Understanding Play Deprivation in Northern Ireland.
The publication was launched at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, where Alan Herron, Chief Executive of PlayBoard NI, and Jacqueline O’Loughlin, Chair of IPA NI, were joined by Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly MLA and Joanne Bunting MLA. The launch focused on protecting every child’s right to play.
Playing Out – Understanding Play Deprivation in Northern Ireland examines the factors restricting children’s access to developmentally important play opportunities and highlights the need for a coordinated, strategic approach to supporting the right to play across Northern Ireland.
Play is a fundamental element of childhood and a recognised right under Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Through play, children develop physical competence, emotional resilience, creativity and social understanding. Play further provides opportunities for children to explore the world around them, navigate uncertainty and build relationships with peers.
Speaking at the launch, Alan Herron, Chief Executive of PlayBoard NI, said:
“The United Nations International Day of Play is a welcome opportunity to draw attention to the vital role of play in children’s health, learning, and development. The environments in which children and young people grow up have changed significantly in recent years, resulting in fewer opportunities for freely chosen, self-directed play.
Despite increasing recognition of its value, Northern Ireland currently lacks a coordinated policy framework to support the child’s right to play. Strategic action is needed to strengthen the conditions that enable play, including development of a Northern Ireland Play Strategy.”
Jacqueline O’Loughlin, Chair of IPA NI, added:
“Play is central to helping children grow into healthy, happy adults. As the Northern Ireland branch of the International Play Association, we join colleagues around the world in calling on decision-makers to recognise the importance of high-quality, inclusive play opportunities for all children, to ensure that every child can fulfil their right to play.”
Junior Minister Aisling Reilly said:
“Play is a vital part of childhood. It helps children learn, build confidence, develop friendships and make sense of the world around them, while giving them the freedom to simply enjoy being children.
The Playing Out report highlights some of the challenges that make it harder for some children to play. No child should miss out on these experiences because of where they live, their background or their circumstances. On the International Day of Play, it is a timely reminder that we all have a role to play in ensuring every child can enjoy their right to play and the many benefits it brings.”
Junior Minister Joanne Bunting said:
“I am delighted to support the launch of this report, especially on the International Day of Play, a day that reminds us of the vital role play has in every child’s life.
Play is so much more than just a recreation, it is a fundamental part of a child’s development, growth, well-being and sense of belonging. Through play, children build confidence, resilience, relationships and the skills they need to grow.
We must continue to protect and prioritise opportunities for play and we are committed to working together to ensure that every child and young person has the freedom, space and support to thrive.”
Read Playing Out – Understanding Play Deprivation in Northern Ireland.
Find out how you can get involved in the International Day of Play.