Play Matters
Children and young people share why play matters
The Commissioner has published new findings highlighting the importance of play in the lives of children and young people across Western Australia.
Developed by the Play Matters Collective, with support from the Commissioner, the report Children and young people share why play matters captures the views and experiences of 1,086 children and young people aged 3 to 17 years.
The survey explored what play means to children and young people, where and how they play, and the opportunities and barriers that influence their participation.
The findings show that play is an important part of children and young people’s health, wellbeing, friendships, creativity and sense of belonging. However, many participants identified barriers to play, including limited time, space, equipment and access to suitable environments.
Among young people aged 12 to 17 years who participated in the survey:
- 57% said they did not have enough time for play and recreational activities at school
- 45% said they did not have enough space
- 43% said they did not have enough equipment.
The report makes 10 recommendations to inform the development of a Western Australian Play Strategy, calling for a coordinated, rights-based approach that ensures all children and young people have opportunities to play, connect and thrive.
The findings reinforce the importance of listening to children and young people and ensuring their voices help shape the spaces, services and policies that affect their lives.