National Play Day 2024 organised by Kilkenny County Council Community section in conjunction with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth was held on Saturday 13th July, 2024. The event was hosted by Kilkenny County Council and OPW took place between 11am and 1pm in Kilkenny Castle Park. Thanks to all the families that came along and enjoyed the activities and making the event a great success. The feedback from the various workshops was hugely positive and planning for next year has already commenced for an even bigger and better event! Along with event partners Healthy Ireland and the Children and Young People’s Services Committee (CYPSC) it was great to highlight and support the importance of creating time and space for families to have fun together.
Play is vital to supporting children’s development, learning and wellbeing. It encourages a sense of adventure and discovery, helping young minds to better understand the world around them through fun and creative ways. This National Play Day was an opportunity for Kilkenny County Council and our partners to invite children and their families to come together in the grounds of Kilkenny Castle Park and take part in a wide range of activities for all to enjoy.
Hundreds of children enjoyed the workshops chosen to represent the wonder and discovery that unfolds when children play outside. Access to outdoor play means children have many opportunities for developing their imagination and physical abilities. Playing in nature also presents opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Active play packs will be delivered to families across the county over the next two weeks that target a number of harder to reach children, including children with additional needs. Kilkenny Civil Defence team are supporting this initiative by delivering the play packs.
National Play Day is more than just a day of fun, it is a celebration of the fundamental role that play has in all of our lives. Play is essential for children’s physical, emotional and cognitive growth.
