International Day of Play – 11th June

Today is International Day of Play, think back to your childhood for a second. What’s your best memory? For most of us, it’s a blur of scraped knees, building forts, and staying outside until the streetlights came on. It was pure, unstructured play.

But today, between shrinking school break times, busy schedules, and endless screen time, that version of childhood is under threat in 2026. This year’s International Day of Play theme is a loud wake-up call: Protect play, protect childhood.

At Go Play, this isn’t just a catchy slogan for us – it’s the exact reason why we do what we do. Our provision is about so much more than just putting some play equipment out in a local park or community setting. It’s about making sure children actually have the opportunity to play by actively breaking down the barriers that stop families from accessing it.

The Go Play Methodology: How We Do It

So, how do we actually do that? How do we break down those barriers and protect play in Sandwell?

For starters, we make it as easy as possible to join in. We deliver free play sessions right in the heart of local communities – using parks, libraries, green spaces, and community centers. There are no forms to fill out, no waiting lists, and no costs. We don’t make children families or responsible adults book; it’s literally “rock up and play.” By removing the financial and logistical stress, we open the door for every child to just be a kid.

Once they arrive, the magic happens through a massive variety of activities. Whether it’s creative play, social play, or imaginative play, we make sure there is something for everyone.

But our real “secret sauce” is our methodology: co-creation.

We believe in delivering for children and families, not at them. We listen to what they actually want, rather than dictating how they should spend their time. By co-creating the sessions with the community, we ensure we are popping up at the right time, in the right place, and in the right space. We understand the massive importance of child-led play – because at the end of the day, children are the real experts in playing.

Play is Every Day

Even though the global spotlight is on International Day of Play this June 11th, I want to remind everyone that play is every day. It is a fundamental part of growing up healthy, happy, and connected to your community.

We would love for you to come and join us at one of our sessions! You can find exactly where we will be popping up next by visiting our website: goplaysandwell.co.uk.

Written by Luke Cartmell, part of the Powered by CAN team, delivering the Go Play Project funded by Sandwell Council.