Today the world celebrates the first ever International Day of Play which was adopted by the United Nations. Whether you’re an adult or have kids, just take some time today and play. It doesn’t matter if you’re building a new LEGO set or playing a board game with familiy and friends, the point of today is to have fun.

Everyone needs to play more – our future depends on it

The first International Day of Play is celebrated on June 11, 2024. On this day every year hereafter, the world will celebrate the power of play.

By Niels B. Christiansen, CEO, LEGO Group
Sidsel Marie Kristensen, CEO, LEGO Foundation

Play is never just play. Play is universal and taps into children’s natural enthusiasm and curiosity to learn. Play teaches children to explore, to wonder, to connect ideas and experiences and help them gain a deeper understanding of the world that surrounds them. When children play, they develop essential life skills such as creativity, confidence and resilience that help them thrive as they grow up.

Playing takes little more than picking up a stone or a stick. The only real investment is time. Yet, both parents and children indicate that the demand for children’s time away from play is increasing – with play time often being deprioritized.

In a recent survey of 25,500 children and 36,000 parents in 36 countries commissioned by the LEGO Group, 59% of parents indicated they worry that their children do not have enough playtime, do not have enough access to fun activities