Spilling from a bustling Year 3 classroom to the leafy learning space beyond, students are immersed in creation.

There is chatter, movement, and wonder as they collect and build together with sand, water, blocks, cardboard, clay, leaves, pipes, feathers and more. 

As they flow through the task, the students are the essence of the International Day of Play, a celebration of the universal language of childhood and the creativity it fosters for all ages.

The United Nations’ very first International Day of Play is on 11 June, placing play — and all its benefits — on the agenda of policy makers, communities and education providers around the world.

At Sydney Catholic Schools, play is already valued for the positive impact it has on the learning, development and wellbeing of children of all ages.

“Play immerses children in creating strategies and solving problems,” said Sydney Catholic Schools’ Specialist: Early Years (Pre K- 4) Curriculum, Kim Moroney.

“The joy of play gives them the incentive to develop complex reasoning skills, memory, and concentration.

“Play also ignites flexible thinking which will support children to adapt to whatever life challenges the world has to offer them.”

“Play creates a brain that has increased flexibility and improved potential for learning later in life.” – Kim Moroney

Play ‘a biological necessity’ 

Ms Moroney received the Br John Taylor Fellowship for educational research to study the impact of play on the learning of children in 2017.

Her research took her to Finland, Sweden, Anji County in China, and the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Research on Play in Education, Development & Learning (PEDAL).

Ms Moroney presented her research at The International Play Association’s 2023 World Conference in Glasgow, Scotland.