International Day of Play 2025; June 11th.

FORUM: "Choose Play – Every Day." International Day of Play 2025. The theme for this year’s International Day of Play is “Choose Play – Every Day”. Play is a critical part of a child’s development, but for many children in conflicts around the world, this right is denied. Close to 71% of children say play is important because it makes them happy, and 58% say that it helps them make friends and have a good time with others. It is estimated that 160 million children around the world are working instead of playing or learning. Only 1 in 4 children play out regularly on their street compared their grandparents generation where almost three-quarters said they played outside a few times a week. 41% of children had been told to stop playing out by either their parents or other adults such as neighbours. The theme is a reminder for all of us – governments, businesses, schools and families – to take decisions that embrace and prioritize play for children. Play is essential for children’s growth, skills building and confidence. But too many are missing out. This International Day of Play, let’s all choose play every day. Together, we can raise our voices for every child’s right to play and help ensure it is fulfilled. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #11June #InternationalDayofPlay, #Chooseplayeveryday,#LearningThroughPlay.

EVENTS: On June 11th, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York; The UNESCO and the UNICEF will held a high-level panel discussion to mark the International Day of Play 2025 and to promote the importance of play. This landmark event features a high-level panel discussion in Conference Room 6 and an interactive Play Expo on the UN lawn, inviting children, diplomats, and partners to engage in meaningful dialogue and joyful play. Senior government representatives from Member States are expected to attend. Register to participate and watch the event!

STATEMENT: “Play is a sign that children feel safe and nurtured and loved. They feel somewhat that they can be children even in the midst of great difficulty.” UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell.

ACTIVITIES: Play: Amazing for everyone: Finding joy, comfort and excitement in everyday moments.

PUBLICATIONS: Suggested readings - People at play; Learning is child's play and Learning through play.

Guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5 years of age.

LIVESTREAM: On June 11th, the inaugural International Day of Play celebration will raise awareness about the critical role of play in human development and encourage global commitments to policies and investments that protect and promote play for every child.

 Watch the high-level event at UN Headquarters celebrating the inaugural International Day of Play and advancing the global movement to protect every child's right to play.