Imagine there was a “thing” that could ease stress, build emotional and cognitive connections, boost brain development, lay the groundwork for complex concepts like pre-algebra, improve spatial awareness and problem-solving, and even prevent the kind of emotional outbursts that come from frustration and overwhelm.
Now imagine this thing only takes 15 minutes a day, works for people of all ages, and is entirely free.
The best part? This “magic thing” already exists.
We are, of course, talking about… play.
The Most Important Thing We Keep Pushing Aside
Play is often the first thing we skip when our days get busy. It’s pushed aside to make room for what we think are the more important tasks—paperwork, schedules, routines. But what if play isn’t a luxury? What if it’s actually the most important focus of the day?
Whether you’re working in early childhood services, or leading adults who support children, it’s time to elevate play to the priority it deserves.
June 11th: International Day of Play
This year, June 11th marks the International Day of Play, with a powerful theme: “Choose play – every day!” This message couldn’t come at a better time. It reminds us all that play isn’t a break from learning—it is learning.
Children use play to explore the world, test ideas, regulate emotions, and connect with others. And adults benefit too: play helps us recharge, bond with the children in our lives, and even boost our own mental and emotional health.
But even when we know this, it’s easy to get caught up in to-do lists and the daily hustle. So how do we keep play purposeful, joyful, and consistent when working directly with children? Where we know the value of play and it is expected?
Three Simple Ways to Embrace Play (and Help Families Do the Same)
1. Celebrate the Learning in Play
The learning that happens during play is profound. One of the best things we can do is make it visible to families.
- Chat with parents about how a simple game of hide and seek helps develop spatial awareness and builds trust—skills that are foundational for fields like engineering and architecture.
- In your daily journals or conversations, highlight how pouring and measuring during pretend cooking is actually math in action—an early introduction to concepts like measurement and volume.
When families understand the real learning behind playful moments, they’re more likely to support and encourage it at home and in your service.
2. Be Intentional About Enjoying It Yourself
Let’s face it – our moods fluctuate just like the children’s do. But instead of pushing through, use play as your energy reset.
- Feeling sluggish? Start a spontaneous dance party with scarves or ribbons and get moving.
- Need a brain boost? Try problem-solving games or puzzles. Even something as simple as matching container lids to the right tubs can become a fun and challenging activity.
Give yourself permission to enjoy play. When adults are genuinely engaged, it enhances the experience for children too.
3. Make Play Inclusive for Everyone
Not every child plays the same way—and that’s okay. Creating an inclusive play environment means recognising and adapting to the different needs and preferences of children.
- Teach children how to invite others into their play, and how to respond kindly when someone wants to join.
- Modify activities where needed to support developmental stages or sensory needs. You don’t always need a whole new game — sometimes just a small tweak makes play accessible to everyone.
Being intentional about inclusion teaches empathy, collaboration and acceptance – skills the world needs more of.
Choose Play – Every Day
On this International Day of Play, let’s commit to seeing play for what it really is: a powerful tool for growth, learning, and connection. Let’s stop treating it as an afterthought and start honouring it as essential.
Because play isn’t just a part of childhood.
It’s the heart of it.
And it’s something we never outgrow.
So go ahead and rediscover the magic of play. And more importantly, choose it every day!
