Celebrating the First International Day of Play: 10 Play-fuelled Activities for Primary Schools
An adult with 3 children painting at a table.
The upcoming International Day of Play on June 11th represents a unique and exciting opportunity for primary schools to emphasise the significance of play in child development. Play Healing CIC is proud to support schools in embracing this day, highlighting the PAUSE, PLAY, CONNECT Ⓡ philosophy.
By engaging in play-based activities, we can strengthen bonds between parents, carers, and children, fostering emotional connections and cognitive development. Here are ten engaging and easy-to-implement suggestions for schools to celebrate the day, designed to be both fun and meaningful.
1. Parent-Child Creative Storytelling Sessions
Organise storytelling workshops where parents and children create stories together. Use prompts to ignite imagination and guide them to invent characters, settings, and plots, emphasising collaborative creation. This activity encourages language skills and strengthens emotional bonds.
2. Outdoor Nature Scavenger Hunts
Create a nature scavenger hunt in the school grounds or a local park, encouraging families to work together to find items on the list. This promotes physical activity, observational skills, and an appreciation for the natural world, fostering connections with the environment and each other.
3. Family Art Projects
Set up art stations with a variety of materials for families to use together to create a collaborative piece. This could be a large mural, sculpture, or series of individual artworks themed around what play means to them. Artistic expression facilitates non-verbal communication and shared pride in a joint accomplishment.
4. Mindfulness and Movement Workshops
Host workshops that combine mindfulness practices with playful movement activities, such as yoga or dance. These sessions can help families experience the present moment together, enhancing emotional attunement and collective joy.
5. Cooking Classes for Families
Offer cooking classes focusing on making simple, healthy snacks. Cooking together encourages teamwork, following instructions, and the joy of sharing a meal, reinforcing the connection between nutrition, health, and well-being.
6. Technology Timeout Challenge
Encourage families to commit to a technology timeout, and get outside more. Offer a variety of play materials and suggest activities that foster imagination and creativity, highlighting the value of undistracted time together.
7. Community Service Projects
Organise community service projects that families can participate in together, such as planting a garden or creating a community art piece. Engaging in service projects promotes empathy, collaboration, and a sense of shared purpose.
8. Interactive Theatre Performances
Arrange for interactive theater performances where children and their parents can participate in the storytelling process. This immersive experience encourages creative expression, listening skills, and a shared sense of adventure.
9. Board Game Tournaments
Host a board game tournament for families, featuring a variety of games that cater to different age groups and interests. Board games are excellent for developing strategic thinking, patience, and sportsmanship.
10. Reflection and Connection Circles
End the day with reflection and connection circles, where families can share their experiences, highlights, and what they learned about each other. This closing activity emphasises the importance of verbalising emotions and appreciating shared experiences.
Engaging Parents and Teachers
To make these activities a reality, it's crucial to engage the whole school community. Headteachers and teachers can play a pivotal role in encouraging participation and emphasising the importance of taking a “PAUSE” from the routine to “PLAY” and “CONNECT” By distributing this guide and incorporating these suggestions into the school's planning for the International Day of Play, schools can create a memorable and impactful celebration.
Conclusion
The First International Day of Play offers a wonderful opportunity to reinforce the value of play in building connections, enhancing well-being, and supporting the development of our children. By incorporating these ten suggestions, schools can create a day filled with joy, learning, and meaningful engagement for families. Let's embrace the PAUSE, PLAY, CONNECT Ⓡ philosophy and make this International Day of Play a cornerstone for promoting healthier, happier, and more connected school communities.
To book a call to discuss your ideas or for further resources and to partner with Play Healing get in touch today.
debi@playhealing.com