Let children play, it’s key to their development
Children playing outdoors. A child’s development is positively affected by consistent and loving relationships with parents as they play.
Today, Kenya will join the rest of the world in celebrating the International Day of Play, which highlights the importance of play in every child’s life. This year’s theme, “Choose play – every day”, is a reminder that play is not a luxury—it is a fundamental right, essential for children’s growth, learning and well-being.
Play is at the heart of childhood. It allows children to explore, imagine, create and build vital life skills. From a young age, children use play to make sense of the world around them. It helps them learn how to solve problems, cooperate with others, express emotions and gain confidence. Play supports physical health, enhances brain development and nurtures social and emotional resilience. Yet, in many communities, opportunities for safe and meaningful play are still limited.
Kenya has taken deliberate steps to integrate play into the education system, particularly through early childhood development programmes. The National Pre-Primary Education Policy and the Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy Framework emphasise the use of play-based learning approaches to promote active engagement and creativity among learners.
County governments, which are responsible for early childhood education, have also made investments in improving playgrounds in public schools and early learning centres.
While these efforts are commendable, more remains to be done to ensure that every child, regardless of their background or location, has equal access to safe play environments. In informal settlements and rural communities, children still lack proper playgrounds or structured time to play. The pressure of academic performance and unsafe neighbourhoods also contribute to the decline in play opportunities.
Governments must increase investment in child-friendly play infrastructure and ensure that policies on play are fully implemented and enforced. Educators should continue to embrace play-based learning across all levels of education.
Parents and caregivers should make time for play at home and support outdoor activities that enhance children’s physical and mental health.
The private sector, civil society and community leaders must advocate inclusive and accessible play spaces.
Nancy Njeru