International Day of Play: Stapelstein Stepping Stones

Read on to learn more about the International Day of Play and the significance of play in child development, and Stapelstein Stepping Stones below…

WIN: Stapelstein Stepping Stones and Balance Boards

What is the International Day of Play?

Founded in 2024 and involving over 140 countries, the International Day of Play was created to put play back on the agenda. Steered by a network of organisations and initiated by the LEGO Group, the aim is to help every child reach their full potential with time, space and access to play. This international awareness day aims to bring about systematic change by reaching those who can ensure play is part of every day.

Getting involved can be as simple as championing play in your setting or helping spread the word. Below are just a few tips to create more opportunities to play in your setting:

Provide varied resources to facilitate different types of play. Ensure different interests are catered for. This could include messy play materials for those who like to get hands-on, small world sets to stretch imaginations, or creative construction crates and play equipment for those who like to climb and balance. Provide materials that aren’t commonly found at home.

Keep play unstructured and child-led. Encourage children to explore and experiment with the resources provided. Allow them to use their creativity to guide their play and make their own decisions about what happens next.

Focus on the process rather than the result. It’s important for children to enjoy the journey of play. Encourage open-ended play opportunities where there is no right or wrong. This allows children to use problem-solving skills as they navigate different play scenarios.

Why is play important?

You don’t need to be a child psychologist or expert practitioner to know that play is a crucial part of early childhood. Children can build and acquire numerous early learning skills by exploring, taking risks, experimenting and testing ideas. Crucially, they’ll become focused and engaged, so learning will be fun and memorable.

Play is the root of high-level engagement

Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg

Play is not only essential for children’s physical and cognitive development, but it also helps them develop social and emotional skills. When children engage in play, they learn how to communicate, collaborate, negotiate and problem-solve with others. Play also allows children to express themselves creatively, nurturing their self-confidence and self-esteem.

Regular play allows children to explore their interests and passions, helping them discover their strengths and talents. By encouraging play in school, educators can support children in developing a love for learning and a curiosity about the world around them.

Play is what I do when everyone else has stopped telling me what to do

Michael Follett, Opal

So, whether it’s organising a play-based activity, creating a playful learning environment, or simply encouraging children to play freely more often, everyone can promote the importance of play in early childhood. Let’s celebrate the International Day of Play and advocate for the power of play in shaping happy, healthy, and well-rounded individuals.

Stapelstein Stepping Stones and Balance Boards

What better way to encourage learning through play this International Day of Play? This versatile set includes six stepping stones and a balance board to encourage children to get active wherever they are.

Stack, balance or bunny hop Stapelstein Stepping Stones

Whether used to create exciting obstacle courses or to aid counting, sequencing, and colour recognition skills, children will have unlimited opportunities for learning, physical development, and using their imaginations in creative play.

Stepping stones also provide a great way to build core strength as children jump, stretch, climb and navigate from stone to stone. A great tool for incorporating active play into many educational activities, and supporting both cognitive and physical development.

The vibrant colours make them instantly appealing to children, encouraging them to engage in active play and learning. The durable, 100% recyclable material ensures that they can withstand years of wear and tear, making them a long-lasting addition to your busy setting.

Whether used in a classroom, nursery, or at home, these stepping stones provide hours of fun for younger and older children alike. With endless possibilities for creative play and physical activity, they’re a versatile and valuable tool for indoor and outdoor play.