Although everyday is set aside to play because the world needs it and we are Jack and Jane who become dull if we do not play. However the World Play Day is one of the important days observed by the United Nations Children’s Fund each year. Recognized globally as the UN-designated International Day of Play, it is celebrated to protect and advocate for every child’s fundamental human right to play.
About the day, The International Day of Play observed annually on June 11 is a global initiative established by the United Nations to recognize play as a fundamental right for every child. This year’s theme is “Protect play, protect childhood”. Co-facilitated by UNICEF and UNESCO, the day highlights that play is essential for a child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being.
Dr. George Wachiuri, the Optiven Group Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Optiven Foundation says, “the world we live in is not accommodating of the current children making it unfriendly for future generations. Therefore a day like the International Day of Play thus highlights that play is a crucial lifeline for healthy brain development, emotional regulation, and lifelong learning.”
Ann Nyaga, the Cordinator of the Optiven Foundation adds, “ World Play Day is celebrated to remind us all of our role to protect and advocate for every child’s fundamental human right to play. And because we are all part of the community, each of us has an inner child that must embrace play for overall wellness.”
Their sentiments are shared by Cathrine Khasoa, the Corporate Affairs Manager at Optiven who says, “Optiven accommodates play at work by building a fun, active, and supportive culture. This balances hard work with employee happiness while ensuring that they enjoy the work they do and the environment they work in. The company creates engaging campaigns like the #MoveWithOptiven Challenge, where staff can record fun dance videos to the company anthem.
Martin Waweru, the Associate Director for Human Resources and Talent Acquisition adds, “among the initiatives Optiven has taken to make the workplace play-inclusive include funding and supporting its own football club, called Optiven FC, fun team-building sessions that give staff a chance to take a break from the office, play group games, and bond with each other. The company provides flexible work options so employees do not burn out.
So why does such a day matter? Play fosters creativity, resilience, social interaction, and problem-solving skills, which help children thrive in a changing world. It is a right rooted in Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and is vital to a happy and healthy childhood.
How can this celebration be brought to life? In Kenya, celebrations and initiatives across the country generally feature activities. Organizations like Kenya Red Cross Society host dedicated play days at specialized institutions—such as the Dagoretti Special School—featuring inclusive games, face painting, music, and bouncing castles for children with and without disabilities. Play-Based Learning in Communities also take place.
Local Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers, non-profits, and UN bodies collaborate to transform classrooms into creative hubs. Activities range from drawing and coloring to storytelling and structured sports, bringing the global theme of “Choose Play – Every Day” to life. Advocacy for Safe Spaces is also gaining momentum. Media and child-welfare organizations leverage the day to advocate for policies mandating public play areas in urban developments.
They also emphasize integrating the science of play into the education system rather than treating it simply as a break. Children Sports Days: Local sporting bodies, inspired by global initiatives, host community football and athletics tournaments to foster teamwork, physical health, and discipline from a young age.
