Children's right to play

Every child has the right to play. This is recognised throughout the world in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). The convention lists the 42 rights children and teenagers (under the age of 18) have, including the right to play.

Playing is your child’s right wherever they are – at home, in childcare and at school.

Other children’s rights include:

• the right to have a say and be listened to
• the right to meet with friends and join groups and clubs
• the right to learn and go to school.

This convention applies to all children and teenagers, whoever they are, wherever they live and whatever they believe. So as parents and carers, it’s important to make sure your child has the space, time and company of others to play.

Right to play resources

These information posters can help your child to learn about their right to play. They can be printed and shared with other children and adults too – they’re great for raising awareness about play.

Download right to play postcard

Download right to play small poster

Download right to play big poster

Download right to play for colouring

If your child wants to know more about their right to play, and their other rights, they can find information on the following websites:

• Children’s Commissioner for Wales – a champion for children’s rights
• Children’s Legal Centre – information and legal advice to children and teenagers about their rights.