Playing for Change
Children may play best when grown-ups stay out of the way. But when it comes to removing barriers to play, the responsibility lies with adults. They must help equip children with basic values such as empathy, a sense of justice and kindness. Parents, decision-makers and activists can all play a part in creating real change, whether it is building a safe bicycle path or playground, making children feel welcome in their communities or simply allowing time for unscheduled fun. It is up to us adults to fulfill the intentions of the Child Rights Convention and give all children their right to play.
An increasing number of social entrepreneurs, academics and organizations are fighting for children’s right to play. Some hold conferences and write research papers, others build inclusive playgrounds, design ecological toys or set up safe play spaces in refugee shelters.
Play can also have a healing effect on children who have been severely traumatized. One example of this is the Somaly Mam Foundation in Cambodia, when visiting a rehabilitation center run by the Somaly Mam Foundation. They use art, cultural expression and free play to help former child sex-slaves. When asked how they could possibly move on from the cruelties they had endured, the children answered: ‘We play’.
Photo: Kim Naylor
