4 in 10 children say a lack of play space is the biggest barrier to their play.
A recent survey conducted in the Republic of Ireland by PlayBoard NI and the National Childhood Network also found that half of children and young people do not have enough time to play, more than a fifth have no one to play with in their area, and almost a quarter are concerned about traffic.
These barriers are standing in the way of children and young people’s well-being and enjoyment of their free time, as 93% agree that play is important, 81% say it makes them happy, and 50% report that it keeps them active.
With the newly formed coalition government, there is a critical opportunity to protect, promote and prioritise children and young people’s opportunities for play and to make a positive impact on their lives.
Alan Herron, CEO of PlayBoard NI, the lead organisation for the development of play in Northern Ireland, commented:
“Similar to the feedback from children and young people in Northern Ireland, our recent survey shows that children and young people need more places to play, easier access to these spaces, and more time to enjoy them.
In 2023, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child identified a number of key actions for the Irish government. These included strengthening support for initiatives aimed at promoting children’s right to play; ensuring accessibility for girls, children with disabilities, asylum-seeking and migrant children and socioeconomically disadvantaged children; and fully involving children in the planning and design of relevant programmes.
The right to play is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and a biological necessity. Our survey underscores the need for action to improve access to developmentally critical play opportunities across Ireland.”
Michelle Hart, CEO of National Childhood Network said:
“It is fantastic to see the views of children and young people on play across the island of Ireland. Key messages coming from children and young people include the importance of play for all age groups, children and young people wanting their play protected, and safer spaces to engage in play with their friends and families. Our survey highlights the work needed to ensure key policies and play strategies across the whole island of Ireland.”
2025 also marks the establishment of a new branch of the International Play Association (IPA) in Ireland. IPA works to protect, preserve and promote the child’s right to play globally, and at a grassroots level through country branches.
Dr Helen Lynch, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of P4Play, said:
“There is fantastic work happening across Ireland to support children’s play but it is often disconnected, reflecting the absence of national policy and funding support. By forming IPA Ireland, we aim to unite play advocates to work collectively for the benefit of children and young people, both at a national and local level.”
An IPA Ireland online meeting is taking place on 4 March at 2:00pm. For further information or to register, please email shellymcgee24@gmail.com