NEW YORK — On the first-ever International Day of Play (IDOP), UNICEF released alarming data revealing that many young children are deprived of play, stimulation, and interaction with their parents and caregivers. The UN children’s agency has called on governments to strengthen legal frameworks and invest in evidence-based parenting programs and play spaces for children.
Impact of Violent Discipline
Despite progress in prohibiting physical punishment in many countries, around half a billion children under the age of five still lack adequate legal protection against physical and verbal abuse at home. According to UNICEF, harmful social norms continue to support violent child-rearing practices, with slightly more than one in four mothers and primary caregivers believing physical punishment is necessary to raise children.
The data shows that approximately four in ten children aged two to four years do not receive sufficient stimulation at home, which can lead to emotional neglect, detachment, insecurity, and behavioral issues in adulthood. Additionally, one in ten children misses out on critical developmental activities with their caregivers, such as reading, storytelling, singing, and drawing.
First International Day of Play
The inaugural International Day of Play emphasizes the vital role of play in human development across cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlighted the significance of nurturing and playful parenting in helping children feel safe, learn, build skills, and navigate the world.
“Nurturing and playful parenting can bring joy and also help children feel safe, learn, build skills, and navigate the world around them,” said Ms. Russell.
Challenges to Children’s Play
The IDOP also brings attention to the barriers that prevent children from playing, such as disabilities, gender discrimination, conflict, and learning poverty. UNICEF is urging governments to address these challenges by improving legal and policy frameworks to end all forms of violence against children in the home. The organization also calls for the expansion of evidence-based parenting programs and increased access to learning and play spaces for children.
“On the first International Day of Play, we must unite and recommit to ending violence against children and promoting positive, nurturing, and playful caregiving,” Ms. Russell announced.
UNICEF’s data underscores the urgent need for comprehensive support systems to ensure that all children can enjoy the benefits of play and nurturing care, crucial for their overall development and well-being.