Are Our Children Playing Enough?

In a world increasingly dominated by screens, children are playing significantly less than they used to. The Raising the Nation report asks an important question: Are our children playing enough? Sadly, the answer is no.

‍

Social media, computer games, and smartphones have taken over as the pastime of choice, pushing traditional play to the sidelines. Playtime at school is being squeezed by the curriculum, and time with friends outdoors is shrinking. Children are losing the ability to be independent, connect with their communities, and experience the outdoors.

‍

At With Kids, we’ve seen first-hand the impact of this shift. For years, our work has centred around supporting children and families through play therapy, an approach that uses play to help children express their emotions, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges.‍

‍

The Power of Play

Play is more than just fun—it’s fundamental to a child’s development. It helps them:

‍

• Develop problem-solving skills and emotional resilience.
• Learn how to navigate friendships and social situations.
• Build confidence and self-esteem.
• Process complex emotions in a safe and supportive way.

However, the opportunities for play are disappearing. Instead of climbing trees, riding bikes, or making up games with friends, many children spend hours scrolling on social media or playing video games. While technology has its benefits, an over-reliance on screens is impacting children's social skills, mental health, and ability to cope with challenges.

At With Kids, we believe in the transformative power of play. Our work is guided by three core values:

‍

• Empowerment – We help children discover their strengths and develop the tools they need to face challenges.
• Connection – We foster relationships between children, parents, teachers, and communities to create lasting change.
• Creativity – We use imaginative and flexible approaches to support each child’s unique needs.

Through play therapy, we provide children with a space to express themselves, work through difficult emotions, and build confidence—all through the language of play. Whether it’s through storytelling, art, or role-playing, we help children develop the skills they need to thrive.

‍

‍Bringing Play Back into Children's Lives

As the report highlights we need to reclaim play in children’s lives and a collective effort from parents, schools, policymakers, and communities. Schools must prioritise breaktimes and outdoor activities instead of squeezing play out of the curriculum. Local councils should invest in safe, accessible play spaces and reverse the trend of closing playgrounds. Parents can set limits on screen time, encouraging kids to explore, create, and socialise in real-world settings. Most importantly, play should be recognised as essential—not an afterthought. Governments must develop a national play strategy that protects and promotes children’s right to play, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to develop independence, social skills, and a deep connection with their community.

‍

If we want to raise a generation of resilient, confident children, we need to make space for play. Schools, families, and communities must work together to ensure children have time to play freely—away from screens and structured schedules.

‍

At With Kids, we are committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of play. Because when children play, they learn, grow, and build the foundations for a brighter future.

‍

NOTES

We need to bring play back into children’s lives. Families, schools, and communities must prioritise unstructured play, ensuring that children have safe, stimulating spaces to explore and interact. Schools should protect and expand break times, parents should encourage outdoor and creative play over screen time, and policymakers must invest in play-friendly environments. With Kids is committed to making this happen by supporting children and families with tailored play therapy and community-led initiatives that champion the power of play.