Play organisations across the UK and Ireland are calling on all schools to join the Play 31 Challenge on 11 June, marking the International Day of Play and celebrating every child’s right to play.
The United Nations has designated 11 June as the International Day of Play, recognising the power of play at the heart of a happy, healthy childhood. Inspired by Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that every child has the right to play, schools are encouraged to allow 31 extra minutes for play in the school day.
This year’s campaign theme is Protect play, protect childhood. By extending break times, supporting playful outdoor learning, or creating a giant ‘31’ from loose parts, schools can show their support for the power of play.
Evidence shows that happy and healthy childhoods are built on play. Play isn’t just fun, it’s essential. Schools have a unique and vital role in supporting children’s ability to learn, play, be active and experience nature.
Through play, children learn to forge connections with others, build a wide range of leadership skills, develop resilience, navigate relationships and social challenges, and conquer their fears. Play helps children to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Alan Herron, Chief Executive of PlayBoard NI, said:
“The International Day of Play is an opportunity for schools, childcare settings, families, and communities to come together and make more time for play on 11 June. We know that play is central to children’s health and well-being, and access to high-quality play opportunities for all children is essential.”
Marguerite Hunter Blair, Chair of the UK Children’s Play Policy Forum, said:
“We are calling on schools to take on the Play 31 Challenge and make more time for play. At a time when children’s access to play is increasingly restricted, school environments can provide a range of rich play experiences which contribute to children’s improved health, happiness and life chances. And everyone can have some FUN!”
Robyn Monro-Miller, President of the International Play Association, said:
“International Day of Play serves to drive global awareness so all children can be beneficiaries of playful childhoods. It is wonderful to see the range of organisations collaborating to work with schools to drive this awareness across the UK and Ireland”.
This is a UK Children’s Play Policy Forum call to action and collaboration with IPA Cymru Wales, IPA England, IPA Ireland, IPA Northern Ireland, and IPA Scotland.