The ‘Raising the Nation’ Play Commission: What Parents Need to Know

At the Good Play Guide, we’re always shouting about the importance of play – it’s essential for children’s development, helping them learn, grow and thrive. Yet, play is under threat. Shrinking green spaces, increasing screen time, and changing lifestyles mean many children aren’t getting the play opportunities they need.

Recognising this, the UK’s Raising the Nation Play Commission was launched in June 2024. Among the expert commissioners leading its important work is our own Dr. Amanda Gummer, founder of the Good Play Guide and a dedicated advocate for children’s play. 

Headed up by author and entrepreneur Paul Lindley OBE and Anne Longfield CBE of the Centre for Young Lives, this year-long inquiry aims to highlight the importance of play and push for policies that protect children’s right to play.

 

The Commission is exploring seven core areas:

Learning Through Play – How to boost learning through play.

Expanding Play Spaces – Finding ways to improve access to safe, engaging play areas.

Time to Play – Exploring the changing school day and year, and changing environments outside school.

Legal Rights to Play – Investigating whether UK law does enough to protect children’s right to play.

Digital Play – Looking at how to balance screen time with active, physical play.

Parental Involvement – Encouraging parents to support play in today’s changing world.

Play and Health – Exploring how play is an integral part of a healthy childhood and how it can be used in healthcare settings and by healthcare professionals.

The findings of the commission, set to be published in June 2025, will help shape future policies to ensure every child has access to enriching play experiences. But parents don’t have to wait for policy changes – there are plenty of ways to encourage and support play at home and in the community right now!

 

How Parents Can Support Their Children Through Play

Play is more than just fun; it’s essential for social, cognitive and emotional development. Here are some practical ways parents can encourage play in everyday life;

1. Encourage Free Play

Unstructured play allows children to use their imagination and problem-solving skills. Encourage activities like:

• Outdoor exploration: Take walks in nature, visit parks, or create scavenger hunts.
• Role-playing: Provide costumes or props for pretend play, helping children develop creativity and communication skills.
• Building and crafting: Use household items like cardboard boxes to create forts, robots, or castles.

2. Incorporate Play into Learning

Play-based learning enhances cognitive skills while making education enjoyable. Try:

• Board games and puzzles: These develop problem-solving abilities and patience.
• Maths through play: Use everyday objects for counting and measuring.
• Science experiments: Simple experiments, such as mixing baking soda and vinegar, introduce scientific concepts in a hands-on way.

3. Balance Screen Time with Active Play

Digital play can be educational, but too much screen time can limit physical and social interactions. Set a balance by:

• Setting screen time limits: Encourage a mix of active and passive play.
• Choosing interactive apps: Opt for games that require problem-solving or creativity rather than mindless engagement or passive viewing.
• Co-playing: Engage in video games with children to make screen time more social.

4. Make Time for Physical Play

Physical activity is vital for healthy development. Encourage:

• Sports and games: Activities like football, skipping, or cycling improve coordination and fitness.
• Obstacle courses: Set up a fun indoor or outdoor course using pillows, ropes, or cones.
• Dancing: A simple dance party at home is a great way to stay active and bond with children.
• More activities to get children moving :https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/physical-activities-for-kids/

5. Create a Play-Friendly Home Environment

A child-friendly home encourages play by:

• Designating a play space: Having toys, craft supplies or books in a corner of the house or garden can inspire play.
• Rotating toys: Keep play fresh by changing available toys regularly.
• Encouraging messy play: Activities like painting, water play, or playdough allow for sensory experiences and creativity.

6. Engage with the Community

Play should extend beyond the home. Get involved by:

• Visiting local play areas: Support playgrounds and community playgroups.
• Organising playdates: Encourage social play by meeting up with other families.
• Advocating for play: Get involved with local councils or schools to improve play opportunities in your area.

The Power of Play

Play is undoubtedly a fundamental part of childhood that contributes to lifelong well-being. While the ‘Raising the Nation’ Play Commission works toward systemic change, parents can make a real difference now by fostering play in their children’s daily lives. Let’s all contribute to a happier, healthier future for our children.