International development Experts and Stakeholders in the Education Sector have raised an alarm over the global disappearance of play in childhood, warning that play is not a luxury, but the fundamental foundation of lifelong learning.
Stakeholders made this submission during a high-level advocacy forum for the International Day of Play, calling on Governments, Corporate Organizations, Communities and Families to take decisive action to protect every child’s right to play, learn and grow.
Speaking at the event, Celine Lafoucriere, the Chief of the UNICEF Lagos Field Office, expressed deep concern over modern trends stripping children of their foundational rights.
Lafoucriere who added that the reality of the situation today is that a majority of children are not playing stated that keyplayers must ensure they are developing well and making play a central part of their lives is key to achieving that.as fear should never be a part of childhood as a child who is not safe cannot learn.”
Corroborating her stance, the Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, emphasized the critical link between physical space and intellectual development.
According to Dr. Shittu, schools and communities must actively cultivate environments designated for safe play. He noted that children naturally absorb lessons, retain knowledge, and learn more effectively when they are granted adequate time and space to play.
Addressing the economic misconceptions surrounding early childhood development Education Specialist with UNICEF , Yetunde Oluwatosin revealed that an alarming number of children currently lack access to basic recreational activities.
Oluwatosin urged parents to look inward, emphasizing that creating a playful environment does not require heavy financial investment.
She added that Play materials do not have to be expensive; parents can utilize safe, low-cost, and recycled domestic materials. Play must be inclusive, ensuring that children of all backgrounds and physical abilities can participate wherever they are.
The forum concluded with a universal call to action for key players to invest heavily in play today to secure a better tomorrow. Experts noted that building a resilient future for the next generation requires a deliberate combination of four pillars;
Playful Parenting: Parents actively engaging in creative activities with their children.
Healthy Play Spaces: Communities and schools safeguarding physical parks and playgrounds.
Supportive Caregivers: Teachers and guardians trained to encourage curiosity.
Learning Through Play: Integrating interactive activities into institutional school curriculums.
