Explore Play Wales
The UK Children’s Play Policy Forum, in collaboration with the five IPA branches in the UK and Ireland, has launched its call to action for International Day of Play. The Play 31 Challenge is a call for all schools across the UK and Ireland to give children 31 more minutes of play on 11 June.
The United Nations has designated 11 June every year 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 (UNCRC), which states that every child has the right to play, schools are encouraged to allow 31 extra minutes for playing during the school day.
This year’s campaign theme is Protect play, protect childhood. By extending playtimes and supporting playful outdoor learning, schools can show their support for the power of play, and respect for children’s right to play.
This is a UK Children’s Play Policy Forum call to action and collaboration with the UK and Ireland’s five International Play Association (IPA) branches: IPA Cymru Wales, IPA England, IPA Ireland, IPA Northern Ireland, and IPA Scotland. Play Wales is a member of the UK Children’s Play Policy Forum.
Mike Greenaway, Director of Play Wales, said:
‘Children’s play has never been more important than it is today. The International Day of Play provides us with an opportunity to celebrate play across the world. In Wales it will be a school day, and it will provide an opportunity to highlight the importance of children’s play to their enjoyment of learning.’
Marianne Mannello, IPA Cymru Wales Branch Secretary, said:
‘As the International Day of Play falls on a school day this year, members of IPA Cymru Wales feel that it is a perfect opportunity for schools to protect playtime. Our hope is that the Play 31 Challenge will inspire schools to think about how more time for play can be integrated into every school day. Our members know that play and break time is important to children all year round. We call on organisations to give children more opportunities to play – not just on the International Day of Play, but every day of the year.’