Press Release
GOVERNMENT LENDS WEIGHT TO CAMPAIGN AS TENS OF THOUSANDS TAKE TO THE STREETS FOR PLAYDAY
An estimated 100,000 children will today take part in probably the biggest national street celebration this millennium. Over 300 free local Playday events will take place to celebrate children’s right to play out in the streets, estates and green spaces where they live.
Adding the government’s voice to a campaign that has built in strength every year since it began 20 years ago, Minister for Sport, Gerry Sutcliffe said:
‘Playday has helped highlight the fundamental importance of play to childhood for the last 20 years. Play promotes so many skills for life. Not only does it help children develop their social skills, but it also encourages them to explore their imagination and creativity. Outdoor play in particular gives children the chance to be active, benefiting their health and wellbeing. That it is why it's important that children's play opportunities are provided in the local community. I wish Playday and the tens of thousands children who visit the free local events across the UK a great day.’
Adrian Voce, director of Play England, said: ‘The decline in child-friendly public space, the increase in cars on our roads and the demonisation of children and young people are all factors hindering children’s opportunities to play.
‘The street or area where they live is – or should be – an essential part of a child’s home life, it is where children have played for time immemorial, but the modern world is making streets into a no-go zone for children. Government, local authorities and adults collectively need to do more to ensure that children don’t miss out on the essential childhood experiences that form many adults’ happiest memories.’
To mark Playday, Play England has published a body of research, which looks at attitudes towards street play and the benefits it brings, it also investigates the barriers children and young people face, and outlines what we should be doing to compensate for the decline in recent years.
Also available are top tips for parents and other adults on encouraging and supporting children to play outside near their home and in their community.
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- GOVERNMENT LENDS WEIGHT TO CAMPAIGN AS TENS OF THOUSANDS TAKE TO THE STREETS FOR PLAYDAY
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