Play is more than just fun — it is a powerful tool for learning, confidence-building and healthy development. That was the message as Right To Play Rwanda marked the International Day of Play, calling on parents to make play a bigger part of children's lives at home and in their communities.

Held on June 13 in Byimana Sector, Ruhango District Southern Province, the event brought together learners from several Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, including ECD Byimana, ECD Agape and Groupe Scolaire Byimana. Children took part in games and activities alongside teachers, caregivers and parents.

Although the International Day of Play was celebrated on June 13, it is normally observed on June 11, as established by the United Nations in 2024 to raise awareness of the role of play in children's lives and development.

Play as a tool for learning and life skills

Speaking during the celebration, Amadou Cisse, Country Director of Right To Play, said the day reflects the organisation's long-standing mission of supporting children's development through play.

"Although the United Nations officially established the International Day of Play two years ago, Right To Play has been promoting the power of play for more than 25 years," he said.

Cisse said play is not merely recreation but an essential part of children's growth and education, helping them develop leadership, communication and teamwork skills, as well as self-confidence and respect for others.

"Play is part of children's daily lives. Through play, they learn how to read, write and calculate. These are some of the foundational learning skills that every education system seeks to strengthen," he said.

He added that Right To Play supports schools and communities through play-based learning approaches that help children build literacy, numeracy and social-emotional skills.

The organisation was among the founding members of the global campaign that led to the creation of the International Day of Play at the United Nations. According to Right To Play, evidence shows play-based learning can strengthen literacy and numeracy skills, improve school attendance and help children build resilience, confidence and social connections.

Call for greater parental involvement

Cisse also stressed the importance of parents actively participating in play activities with their children.

"For us, play is not only for children. When parents play with their children, it strengthens their relationship, builds empathy and reinforces social cohesion within families. We encourage parents to continue playing with their children at home, not only during organised events like this one," he said.

The Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs in Ruhango District, Alphonsine Mukangenzi, commended Right To Play for supporting children's development through education and community initiatives.

She noted that despite the benefits of play, many parents still discourage it.

"In Rwandan culture, it is not always common to see parents playing with their children. In many cases, children are told what is wrong without being shown what is right. When a child is constantly warned about mistakes without guidance, they may grow up lacking confidence," she said.

Mukangenzi said self-confidence is built through positive engagement and interaction rather than strict control.

"Respecting oneself does not mean avoiding play. A well-rounded person understands when it is time to play and when it is time to focus on other responsibilities. Parents should allow children time to play when appropriate," she added.

Promoting positive parenting

Mukangenzi further emphasised the importance of positive parenting and communication.

"Children are the future of Rwanda. They are the leaders who will guide our country tomorrow. It is our responsibility to accompany them and provide them with good values and guidance,” she said.

"Physical punishment does not solve problems. You may punish a child many times, but understanding often comes through dialogue and conversation.”

She also thanked Right To Play for its contribution to education in Ruhango District, including support for school infrastructure and facilities that improve learning environments.

Among the parents attending the event was Olive Murekatete, whose child participated in games and presentations during the celebration after benefiting from a Right To Play programme focused on early childhood development.

Murekatete said the programme changed her perception of play and its role in children's development.

"Before participating in activities organised by Right To Play, many of us viewed play simply as entertainment,” she said.

"Today, I understand that when parents play with their children, they help them learn, communicate better and gain confidence. I have seen positive changes in my child, and I now make time to play with him at home.”

A fundamental right for every child

The celebration featured performances, interactive games and demonstrations by children from different ECD centres, with parents and local leaders joining some of the activities.

As children played, sang and interacted throughout the day, organisers encouraged families, educators and policymakers to continue recognising play as a fundamental right and a powerful tool for helping children reach their full potential.