Advocacy

Children’s Week celebrations in NSW highlight value of play

Freya Lucas

Oct 24, 2023

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Children’s Week runs from 21-29 October, and in 2023 the theme reminds all Australians that ‘Children have the right to relax, play and take part in activities they enjoy’, based on Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

"Children's Week is a special time in the Australian calendar where we pause to celebrate Australian children and put the focus on the importance of happy, healthy childhoods,” said President of the Children’s Week Council of Australia Robyn Monro Miller.

“In 2023, our theme focuses on the importance of play, relaxation and participation. Research tells us that play is not just fun, but a biological necessity for the healthy development of the brain and body.”

“The importance of play, time to relax and participation in activities can often be overlooked in the lives of children. This Children’s Week we want to put the spotlight back on these three critical elements for the health of our children and our communities. If we want a healthy and socially cohesive community in the future, it starts with healthy and happy children today.”

Play shapes the way children interact with the world around them. It enables children to learn new skills, make friends and build self-confidence, and research shows that access to play and relaxation are important parts of healthy human development.

“The skills and experiences our youngest people gain in their early years lay crucial foundations for learning, wellbeing and success,” said New South Wales Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Prue Car.

“Early childhood teachers and educators play a crucial part in helping make that possible – through quality play-based learning, tracking important milestones in development and by listening to and laughing with our youngest learners.”

Learn more about Children’s Week here.

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