Celebrate the world's first International Day of Play on 11 June

Playing is not only a human right, but is central to children’s health, wellbeing and happiness. That is why play will be celebrated on 11 June in the world’s first International Day of Play!

Following a campaign by a coalition of play organisations, the United Nations adopted a resolution earlier this year for an annual International Day of Play. The day is a chance to raise awareness about the importance of play and is an opportunity to explore ways to make sure children everywhere can play every day.

“We need play just as much as we need air to breathe, nutrition to grow and develop, and love to thrive and be happy.” International Day of Play Youth Call to Action

Playing offers your child so much that supports their health and development. When children are playing, they are exercising their bodies and brains without even realising it. Playing can also be relaxing – and most importantly it’s fun. Playing needn’t cost much (or anything at all) and it makes every day an adventure.

Despite all of the amazing benefits of play, 29% of children in Wales say they never, or hardly ever, play out (What children say about play in Wales). Why not mark International Day of Play on 11 June by making time for play and starting a tradition of more play every day in your family? Here are some ideas to get you started.

Ways to celebrate International Day of Play

Put aside some extra time for play on 11 June. If you’re short on time, play at home or in the garden if you have one. If you have a bit longer, head out to your local park or green space.
Get together with other parents and neighbours to provide a safe space for children to play outdoors. This could be the lanes between houses or a green patch at the end of your street.
Play outside – whatever the weather! If it’s hot, play in the cooling shade of trees. If it’s wet, dig out the waterproofs and wellies and have some puddle-splashing fun!

Easy ideas for play at home

Stuff like boxes, string, sticks, paper, cushions and fabric often make the best playthings. Items like this are great for play because they encourage young children to be more creative and physically active.
Playing with chalk is a cheap and easy way to play at home. Let your child draw on the pavement or in your yard, or draw a pattern for them to play a game like hopscotch.
Keep cardboard boxes and other packaging and let your child get creative! They could make cars, castles or spaceships, or use them to build dens and forts.

Building play into everyday family life

If you’re going out locally, leave the car at home and play as you walk. Take roller skates, scooters or skateboards. Think of games you can play on the way.
Playing and having fun in the summer holidays needn’t be expensive. Collect leaves and twigs as part of an outdoor scavenger hunt or have water fights and create slip and slides to cool down on hot days.
Find places to play locally. If you live on the coast, build sandcastles on the beach. If you live near a park, take a picnic or climb a tree. If you have a garden, build a den there.

Discover more

The Playful Childhoods website has many more ideas and inspiration for play. Here are some articles you might find useful: