To mark the inaugural International Day of Play on June 11th, Toy Industries of Europe’s Sanjay Luthra has issued a statement.
Following a dedicated network of global organisations, play experts and children and youth themselves calling on UN member states to support the resolution for an International Day of Play. The UN General Assembly has adopted 11th June as an international awareness day. Mattel, The Lego Group and Hasbro were among the leading supporters of the initiative.
Sanjay Luthra, Toy Industries of Europe’s (TIE) chair of the board says today is a landmark day for play and a significant milestone in the recognition of this fundamental right for every child.
“Play is a cornerstone of childhood that helps kids build strength, confidence and important life skills,” he wrote in a statement issued by TIE.
“Play empowers children to learn, grow, and undrstand the world around them. It fosters the development of essential cognitive skills, social abilities, and emotional strength. It is through play that they learn to collaborate, to create, and to persevere. Play also significantly contributes to psychosocial well-being.
“Yet, despite these numerous benefits, play often ends up being the last priority in children’s busy schedules. Sometimes, it is entirely overlooked. Making time to play, providing opportunities to play… Because it sounds so simple, people often forget about its profound effects. Dedicating resources to play is a straightforward and really impactful investment in the happiness and resilience of future generations. This is why investing in children’s well-being and protecting their right to play must become a priority in policies and initiatives around the world, including in Europe.
Sanjay Luthra
“In a few EU countries, schools and educational settings already embrace play as a vital component of the learning process, allowing children the freedom to explore and grow in a less formal way. It would be great to see this approach adopted everywhere.
“Outside of school, there is a need for play spaces that are not only safe, but also diverse and inclusive. Every child should be able to play without fear or limitations. Investments in these spaces benefit not only the children but also enrich our communities and society.
“To get all of this right, we should listen to what the children have to say when making decisions about their playtime.”
Sanjay said he was very glad that the UN has initiated this celebration: “It’s truly gratifying to witness the recognition of something as fundamental as play. A more playful world will be a happier world. I really hope to see the International Day of Play celebrated in every single country.”
Along with TIE, the coalition of partners of International Day of Play is celebrating that this important movement has now been ratified, recognising the true power of play at the highest political level, and invites everyone to join in celebrating the power of play on 11th June this year, and every year thereafter.
As California becomes the first West Coast state to proclaim June 11th as International Day of Play, the state legislature has recognised Mattel for its contribution to the establishment of the date.
Steve Totzke, president and chief commercial officer, commented: “Mattel is honoured to serve as ambassadors in championing International Day of Play in California. Our purpose is to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential and we are proud to support this inaugural moment to help provide children with the opportunity to embrace their fundamental right to play and thrive.”
Just one of the toy companies supporting the event, Mattel will also host a series of activations worldwide in support of play, with co-branded promotions, the donation of toys and books to Save the Children programmes and hosting play kit builds at company locations.
For more on the International Day of Play, click here.
