Playday 2025 – Investment in spaces for play is vital for children’s lives and communities

Commissioner Chris Quinn shares his views on the importance of investment in play and the child-focused planning of public spaces.

“I fully support this year’s Playboard – Playday ‘Spaces for Play’ campaign which highlights the critical need for child-centred town and infrastructure planning.

“As stated in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), play is a fundamental right for children’s development. Playgrounds and parks are spaces where children can let their imaginations flow, meet their friends and bond with their parents and carers. Park equipment helps children grow their confidence, independence, and understand risk too, in a safe, communal space that helps them be themselves.

“Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) recognises the child’s right to rest, relax, play and to take part in cultural creative activities.

“The incorporation of the UNCRC into domestic law would be a powerful step in safeguarding and promoting children’s right to play, as enshrined in Article 31.

“Furthermore, the incorporation of the UNCRC would create opportunities to design public spaces with children in mind, ensure their views are meaningfully considered in the decision-making process and support adequate investment in play infrastructure and services.

“I highly commend the call for further government planning and investment that ensures play spaces are designed to develop children’s physical emotional, educational, and social wellbeing.

“Finally, it is important to foster a society where play is not only protected but actively championed as essential to children’s lives and communities.”

Find out more about Playday and Playboard NI here.