The first-ever International Day of Play was observed on 11 June 2024 to mark a significant milestone in efforts to preserve, promote, and prioritise playing so that all people, especially children, can reap the rewards and thrive to their full potential.

At Lady Gowrie Tasmania (LGT), we recognise that play matters and our programs for children from birth to twelve years reflect our commitment to ensuring that all children are able to play in our services every day.

Play creates powerful learning opportunities across all areas of development – intellectual, social, emotional and physical. Through play, children learn to forge connections with others, build a wide range of leadership skills, develop resilience, navigate relationships and social challenges as well as conquer their fears.

Play also provides a platform for children to express and develop imagination and creativity, which are key skills critical for the technology-driven and innovative world we live in. Playful interactions contribute to the wellbeing and positive mental health of parents, caregivers and children and as children’s first and most influential educators, we invite you to share the ways that you play with your children at home, so we can bring that into our services.

How can you support your child’s play in our services?

1. Connect with Storypark to learn about your child’s play and learning experiences

2. Chat with your educators and service manager about how you can contribute to meaningful play experiences for your children in our services
3. Learn about the importance of play here: https://www.playaustralia.org.au/play-today/power-of-play