Play roundtable talks

The Valuing Children Initiative was proud to join the Play Matters Collective Round Table this month, bringing together sector leaders, researchers, practitioners and advocates to help shape Western Australia's first Play Strategy. 

The conversation reinforced what children have been telling us through our work across communities, schools, local governments and public spaces: children need more opportunities to play close to home, in places that are safe, welcoming and designed with them, not just for them. 

At VCI, our child participation projects have shown that when children are genuinely heard, they provide valuable insights about play, safety, belonging and community design. From street play initiatives and public space design to place-based community projects, children consistently remind us that play is essential for connection, wellbeing and healthy development. 

Thank you to the Play Matters Collective for creating space for this important discussion. We look forward to continuing to advocate for communities where every child has the opportunity to play, participate and thrive.