International Day of Play
Protect play, protect childhood.
Play isn’t just fun – it’s essential for every child’s development.
Learn about International Day of Play 2026, get fun and free play activities for the family and help us make sure that every child everywhere can fulfil their right to play.
Learn about International Day of Play
Learn about International Day of Play
What is International Day of Play?
International Day of Play is a time to celebrate the power of play. It’s a time to raise awareness about how central play is to every child’s development and well-being. And it’s a time when we can come together to make sure that every child is able to fulfil their right to play.
What is the theme for International Day of Play 2026?
The theme for this year’s International Day of Play is “Protect play, protect childhood”. The theme is a reminder for all of us – governments, businesses, schools and families – that happy and healthy childhoods are built on play.
Why is play so important?
Play builds creativity, resilience, and social skills, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and well-being. In too many communities, children's access to free, unstructured play is shrinking as public spaces become unsafe, inaccessible, or unhealthy – particularly in dense urban settings and humanitarian contexts. Without safe spaces, even the most engaged caregivers struggle to support children’s right to play.
When is the International Day of Play?
International Day of Play takes place each year on 11 June.
When was International Day of Play established?
In March 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution establishing 11 June as the International Day of Play to champion and protect this right. On behalf of the United Nations, UNICEF and UNESCO facilitate the annual observance to raise awareness about the importance of play.
How can I get involved?
You'll be able to take part wherever you are – whether it’s trying out new play ideas with your children or helping raise awareness with your friends, families and networks about the power of play.
And remember, there's no need to wait until 11 June – every day is an opportunity for playful moments!
International Day of Play resources
Play inspiration for all the family
Guide for cities and municipalities
Fulfilling every child's right to play
Help create a world where every child’s right to play is respected, protected and fulfilled.
We are calling on governments, businesses and other stakeholders to:
- Scale up services, including parenting programmes, that promote play and attachment
- Enable access to pre-school and learning through play for every 3-6 year old
- Ensure every child has access to safe, inclusive, and well-maintained play areas.
CTA
- BRAC
- ChangeX
- The Child and Youth Friendly Governance Project
- ChildFund Alliance
- The Concerned for Working Children
- Eurochild
- Hasbro, Inc.
- Ingka Centres
- International Play Association
- International Rescue Committee
- The LEGO Foundation
- The LEGO Group
- Mattel, Inc.
- Moving Minds Alliance
- Pampers
- Plan International
- Right To Play International
- Save the Children International
- The Toy Association
- UNICEF
Join our global parenting community
Become a play advocate
Around 1 in 5 children aged 2-4 years do not play with their caregivers at home.
Play is essential for every child’s development and well-being. This free course aims to equip parents, teachers and policymakers with the knowledge to champion play as a right for all children.
By thinking differently about play and understanding its importance, we hope you will join us in advocating for play, helping to create opportunities for children everywhere to grow and thrive in safe and nurturing environments.
