Playday occurs every year on the first Wednesday of August, and is a campaign held to celebrate the importance of play in children's lives. Scientists have long recognised the importance of play in supporting the developmental of children. Physically, play is crucial in promoting core movements such as running, jumping, spinning and grabbing, balance and spatial awareness, which enables the development of gross and fine motor skills as well as benefitting overall health. Cognitively, play provides the opportunity for children to learn new skills, problem solve and enhance language development, as well as positive interactions with caregivers and other children, deepening relationships and friendships.
By incorporating a wide range of movements into the activities which come together to form the event, the 'Fly a kite' movement event aims to provide children with the full range of benefits in which play provides. The event will also seek to remind and reinforce the importance of play in the minds of parents, sharing lots of useful ideas, advice and support covering how they can enable their child to benefit from the full array of developmental opportunities in which play provides.
The explosion of digital technology and advances in transport, especially in the 21st century means that children are moving less than ever before, meaning they often go without experiencing the vital developmental benefits in which play provides. The event will act as a reminder to all of us about the importance of movement and play in young children.
Head of Training, Learning and Development at Early Years Wales, said:
"We are looking forward to welcoming all the children and carers to a fun and active event for the whole family. Movement through play is vital to early childhood development, it lays the foundation for lifelong learning, health, and wellbeing. We hope everyone leaves the event feeling energised, connected, and inspired to keep moving and playing together."