Research spanning decades has consistently demonstrated the significant value of play in various aspects of human development.
In an unprecedented move, the U.N. General Assembly is set to declare June 11 as the world’s inaugural International Day of Play this year.
Experts in the field emphasize that play is not just crucial for children but also holds immense importance for adults. Judi Parson, an Associate Professor of Play Therapy at Deakin University’s School of Health and Social Development, lauded the establishment of an International Day of Play as a means to highlight the profound impact of play.
According to Parson, play contributes to physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development, as well as overall emotional health and well-being. She stressed that play enhances various aspects of life, including mental health, cognitive abilities, and emotional resilience, offering a positive influence in combating rising rates of anxiety and depression.
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Parson further emphasized that rich childhood play contributes to adaptability, stress coping skills in adulthood, and systemic benefits that extend to individuals, families, communities, and society at large. She highlighted the importance of play as a means of regrouping, refreshing, and coping with life’s stresses in today’s fast-paced and highly scheduled world.
A global research survey involving over 25,000 children across 36 countries revealed that a significant portion, up to 73 percent, do not take play seriously.
Lego, a renowned toy giant, collaborated with the U.N. in the establishment of the International Day of Play. Niels B. Christiansen, the CEO of Lego, emphasized the role of play in strengthening family bonds and underscored the significance of celebrating the importance of play through initiatives like World Play Day.
Christiansen stated, “The adoption of an International Day of Play by the U.N. is a true testament to the power of play and the need to collectively champion and protect all children’s right to play.”
The Unique Benefits of Being Playful
According to Deakin’s Emeritus Professor Karen Stagnitti, all forms of play offer distinct advantages. Stagnitti highlighted that exploratory play helps children understand object properties, while sensory motor play improves body awareness and motor skills. Pretend play has been linked to socio-emotional well-being, language development, social skills, creativity, and self-regulation. Additionally, self-directed play is identified as a powerful type of play that facilitates deep learning and enhances memory retention.
Stagnitti also noted that when adults engage in play with children, it often fosters stronger connections and aids in the development of crucial life skills such as resilience, problem-solving, and decision-making.
She explained, “Engaging in activities that involve a degree of risk allows children to push their boundaries, build confidence, and develop a sense of self-efficacy. Experiencing manageable risks in a safe and supervised environment helps children learn to navigate uncertainty and cope with challenges, preparing them for the complexities of the real world.”
Experts caution that without adequate play, children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development may be compromised. Bridget Sarah, a Lecturer in play therapy, highlighted that play is a lifelong pursuit that benefits individuals of all ages.
Sarah emphasized, “As adults, we may forget how to be playful, and dominating a child’s play can decrease the child’s sense of empowerment. We haven’t inherently lost the ability to play, but the way we and our children engage in play has evolved with our busy lifestyles.”
Funding for Indigenous Play Groups
Earlier this year, the Australian government allocated funding for a playgroups pilot aimed at Indigenous Australian children. An additional $31,660 (US$20,870) was committed to Indigenous toy libraries, supplementing the existing $1.1 million budget.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth stressed the significance of culturally appropriate and integrated learning through playgroups and toy libraries in enhancing the early learning, development, and well-being of Indigenous children. She highlighted that this investment aims to support stronger family, community, and cultural connections, especially for children from vulnerable or disadvantaged backgrounds.
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