Global School Play Day (Feb. 7), which was co-founded by IUSD’s Scott Bedley, a fourth-grade teacher at Eastwood Elementary, emphasizes the importance of unstructured play for the mental and physical well-being of students.
Nearly 450,000 students from more than 70 countries participate yearly, including many IUSD schools and students. From outdoor games and sports to arts and crafts, dramatic play, STEM activities, music and movement, free play with toys and games, and exploration of nature, the day is a celebration of the many benefits of unstructured play.
Unstructured play is crucial for child development as it:
- Improves physical skills and coordination
- Enhances creativity and imagination
- Encourages social skills and teamwork
- Supports emotional regulation and stress relief
- Helps develop problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Provides opportunities for exploration and discovery
"Global School Play Day complements our commitment to holistic child development," affirmed Bedley. "It urges educators, parents, and communities to acknowledge the vital role of playtime alongside formal learning in a child's educational journey."
Unplugged, free and creative time is important for teenagers and adults too! Not only does it offer the same benefits for teens and adults but it also can foster greater social wellness and connectedness.
Additional Resources:
To learn more about Global School Play Day, click here. Looking for ways to get out and play, create and explore for your children and family, checkout the City of Irvine’s Inside Irvine to view their Activity Guide. Also, see IPSF’s enrichment classes for students.