ABSTRACT
Denied play opportunity, children suffer and so does the society in which they live. However, play in most countries is still under-valued and under-resourced.
Every opinion canvassed in the Review of National Support for Children’s Play and Recreation (Torkildsen, 1993) believed unequivocally that play held substantial benefits for children. Wholesome development (‘holistic’ was a word often used), social education and learning were mentioned most often. Physical development, motor skills and creativity were also recognized. Many of those consulted spoke of the misunderstanding of the word ‘play’, often almost derided as being ‘only child’s play’. That play is not taken seriously and is under-funded was a theme which dominated most consultations. ‘Children’s play’ gave the impression that its only function is fun, rather than enjoyment in doing many things, often very seriously.
