International Day of Play 2025 – Play changes everything for children

Every child has a right to play. 

On 11 June, the world will celebrate International Day of Play, a United Nations-recognised day that champions every child’s right to play. This year, with global crises deepening, children deserve the right to play and the right to be supported, more than ever.

On the day, every pound you donate will be matched by a generous supporter, enabling us to support even more vulnerable children around the world.

Play is a critical part of childhood. Globally, millions of children are missing out. For 25 years, Right To Play has been a champion of the power of play to protect, educate, and empower children around the world.

This year, in the lead-up to International Day of Play, we’re launching a global campaign to sign an open letter addressed to the children of the world. This letter is a promise that we see them, we support them, and we will keep fighting for their right to play – because we know play changes everything.

Sign our open letter to the children of the world and pledge to protect their right to play. By adding your name, you're

sending a message that children everywhere deserve safety, joy and the chance to grow up with hope.

Dear children of the world,

You deserve to feel safe. To live in peace. To learn. To have the opportunity to grow up to be whoever you want to be. You deserve to have a joyful and happy childhood.

Too many of you are surrounded by war. Too many of you have been forced to leave your home, your friends, and all you’ve ever known behind. Too many of you are working jobs or caring for others when you should be learning, laughing and playing.

I believe that every child should have the chance to play, no matter their circumstance. Because play is so much more than just a pastime. When we invest in play, we support children’s brain development and learning, foster their curiosity and confidence, support them to build relationships with others, promote equality, and build more safe and peaceful communities. Play helps children know and claim their rights. Play changes everything.

I join Right To Play and thousands of parents, teachers, and supporters in standing for your rights to an education, to be safe, and to play. I believe that:

• Every child deserves a joyful childhood free from fear, violence, and exploitation;
• No child should experience discrimination or marginalisation because of their gender, race, ability, or background;
• Every child deserves a quality play-based education that’s engaging and inclusive and teaches them the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in learning and in life;
• Every child deserves the support of supportive and skilled teachers and coaches who can support their learning and well-being;
• Every child deserves the chance to play outside of school in safe community play spaces;
• Every country should integrate play-based learning into school curriculum and teaching practice so that children can learn in safe, fun, and supportive environments that foster curiosity, autonomy, and participation.

Sincerely,

Want to help even more?

If you’re ready to take action now, you can make an early donation to bring play, healing and support to children who need it most.