Years of extensive research affirm that providing time, space, and appropriate adult support for children’s play leads to optimal learning and development. Yet, over the past decades, children’s play has been under threat as the focus on adult-directed activities has increased, time in nature has decreased, and educators of young children feel increasing pressure to meet rigidly imposed learning standards.
On January 21, 2026 we enjoyed an enlightening and empowering conversation with presenters from “Engaging Exchange Online Protecting Play Conference” and members of the World Forum World Play Working Group discussing strategies for advocating for play worldwide — considering worldwide threats to children’s right to play and what can be done to combat them.
