The Government of the Republic of Zambia, in collaboration with UNICEF, marked the first-ever International Day of Play (IDOP) with a press briefing at the United Nations House in Lusaka. This landmark event follows the adoption of a UN resolution emphasizing the critical role of play in children’s learning, bonding, and overall development.
The International Day of Play recognizes scientific advancements that highlight how play is essential for helping children understand and interact with the world around them. In Zambia, a survey of Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs revealed that while 98% of caregivers acknowledge the importance of play, only 40% spend at least an hour daily playing with their children. Barriers to play include work (62%), household duties (54%), and children playing with peers (43%). Additionally, 74% of rural Zambian children under five lack picture books at home.
Dr. Zewelanji Serpell, UNICEF Early Childhood Development Specialist, presented an overview of a pilot program in Eastern Province and Chongwe District. The program, a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Education and line ministries, aims to integrate play into community-based ECD programming. Dr. Serpell emphasized the need for policies that support children’s access to health care, clean water, sanitation, and early learning opportunities with their caregivers.
“Playfulness is an asset for everyone,” Dr. Serpell said. “The more of it we have in work and leisure, the happier and healthier our society will be.”
Despite understanding the value of play, many Zambian parents face challenges in engaging with their young children:
• Parents often believe play is only between children.
• Men typically do not play with their young children (0-3 years).
• Parents feel they lack the time or are unsure how to play with their youngest children.
Dr. Serpell highlighted the importance of universal access to evidence-based parenting programs, early childhood education (ECE), and protected public spaces for play. She also called for the integration of play-based practices into schools.
Ms. Patrine Banda, Assistant Director of the Early Childhood Education Directorate, responded to media questions about the need for more classrooms due to the free education policy. She noted that government, with partners like the World Bank, is establishing nearly 400 ECD hubs. Additionally, collaborations with UNICEF and the European Union will support the construction of hubs in Northwestern and Luapula provinces. The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) will also focus on building age-appropriate classrooms, desks, and toilets.
UNICEF calls on governments to:
• Protection: Strengthen legal frameworks to end all forms of home violence against children.
• Parenting Support: Scale up programs promoting positive, playful parenting and nonviolent discipline.
• Playful Learning: Expand access to learning and play spaces, including preschools and playgrounds.
The International Day of Play serves as a reminder of the fundamental right of every child to play and the collective responsibility to create environments that nurture this essential aspect of childhood.
