In March of this year, the United Nations General Assembly declared that the “International Day of Play” would be celebrated annually on June 11. This decision follows years of advocacy by UNICEF, global civil society, and organisations such as the Right to Play. This month, the world marked the inaugural Day of Play, aimed at promoting conscious efforts to ensure that children everywhere can exercise their right to play.
At first glance, dedicating a day to play might seem trivial. However, despite its natural and seemingly accessible nature, many children worldwide struggle to enjoy a healthy and joyful playtime. Research by the Lego Group, which covered 36 countries, showed that 73% of children feel that adults do not take the importance of play seriously. The Child and Youth Advisory Board’s research revealed that over 20% of children in Asia believe they are not allowed to play, compared to less than 10% in Europe and America. Furthermore, 38% of children in disaster-affected regions are concerned about the lack of safe spaces for playing.
Play is not just a leisure activity; it is a biological and cognitive necessity for the holistic development of children. It naturally fosters problem-solving, creative thinking, collaboration, and resilience—skills vital for the 21st century. Thus, ensuring children's right to play at every level is crucial.
Equitable access to play can serve as a great equaliser. Sadly, this ideal remains far from reality. Many children, particularly those with special needs, face significant barriers to play. One in three children and young people lack time to play, one in five lack safe spaces, and another one in five have no one to play with. Global conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, and natural disasters, like the recent floods in Pakistan, have left millions of children without opportunities to play and learn. Therefore, it is imperative to organise robust global and local efforts to create conducive environments for play, irrespective of race or social class.
For governments and policymakers, ensuring equal access to play opportunities is a serious responsibility. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s National Curriculum Framework and National Education Policy do not adequately address the foundational importance of play. Compared to other South Asian countries, Pakistani children and youth spend the least amount of time playing during the school day.
Play is not just a leisure activity; it is a biological and cognitive necessity for children's holistic development
Statistics from the Academy of Educational Planning and Management indicate that only a limited number of Pakistani schools provide adequate playground facilities. Urban schools, in particular, often lack the space and resources for recreational activities. A survey by the Children’s Global Network Pakistan highlights that in many public schools, playtime is frequently neglected in favour of academic performance. Policymakers must recognise the importance of play in overcoming learning losses and ensuring a well-rounded education.
The situation is even more dire for girls, whose right to play and engage in sports is severely restricted. Cultural barriers, misconceptions about menstruation and puberty, and other societal factors limit their participation in play, even within their homes. Consequently, millions of girls reach adulthood without experiencing the joy of playing or realising the full potential of their minds and bodies.
To address these issues, religious leaders and scholars must work to dismantle cultural barriers and educate society on the importance of play for girls. Additionally, reviving the culture of play in family settings through board games and other activities can strengthen social connections and improve the physical, as well as the mental well-being of children and adults. Fostering safe spaces for children to play is equally important.
Ensuring children's right to play is not a trivial matter; it is a critical aspect of their development and well-being. Governments, policymakers, educators, parents, and society at large must recognise this and take action. The inaugural International Day of Play serves as a reminder of the vital role play has in nurturing healthy, happy, and well-rounded individuals. By prioritising play, we can foster a generation of creative, resilient, and collaborative thinkers ready to tackle the challenges of the future.