Game On: Celebrate the Power of Play
Welcome to a world where play is the ultimate power-up!
- English
- Tiếng Việt
On 11 June 2024 the world celebrated the first-ever International Day of Play, a special day dedicated to the magic of play. Play is not just fun – it is a cornerstone of childhood that shapes a happier, healthier, and more vibrant future for our children.
Want to explore the magic of play with us?
Ready. Set. Go!
Play is a fundamental right
Every child has the fundamental right to play, as recognized by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and Viet Nam’s Children Law. Building on this principle, on March 2024, the United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution co-proposed by 13 countries, including Viet Nam, declaring 11 June as the International Day of Play.
The global community has made a commitment: every child’s right to play should be respected and fulfilled.
It’s time we put this commitment into action and get our children in the game.
UNICEF is partnering with play experts from around the world to promote the power of play. The International Day of Play 2024 campaign in Viet Nam is boosted by the LEGO Foundation and UNICEF.
Play levels up children’s development
Play is children’s superpower. It helps them fine-tune essential skills to navigate and explore the world. Through play, children build a foundation for lifelong curiosity, confidence and joy from the earliest stages of life.
Physical skills
Play improves children’s physical health and motor skills, keeping them active, energetic, and ready to conquer any adventure.
Cognitive skills
Like cracking codes in a thrilling game, play sparks young minds, boosting their curiosity and sharpening their problem-solving skills.
Emotional skills
Through play, children navigate their feelings, much like heroes in a story, discovering strength and resilience along the way.
Social skills
Play is the ultimate multiplayer experience, teaching teamwork, cooperation, and empathy – the keys to a rewarding life.
How to play your part
When children play, everyone wins. But, it only happens when adults step up. Here’s what you can do:
Parents and caregivers, you are your child’s first teacher and playmate.
CREATE safe, inclusive play environments where your child feels welcome and inspired. MAKE TIME for playful interactions with your child – these moments build lasting memories and foster deep connections.
Indoor games that support your child’s development
Building babies’ brains through play: Mini Parenting Master Class
Teachers and educators, let’s make learning fun.
INTEGRATE play into the learning curriculum to enhance academic concepts, encourage creativity, and develop critical thinking skills. This is an opportunity to inspire a lifelong love for discovery in your students.
Companies, prioritize your employees’ well-being.
IMPLEMENT family-friendly policies which provide parents with flexible work schedules, parental leave, and opportunities for family engagement.
Governments and policymakers, uphold and promote children's right to play.
RAISE public awareness about the critical role of play in children’s development. INVEST in safe, inclusive, and well-equipped public play spaces. STRENGTHEN parenting programmes that equip parents with knowledge and skills to build strong, positive relationships with their children.
