When we think about children’s health, our minds often turn to hospitals, appointments, treatments and medicines. Yet health is about so much more than healthcare. It is about feeling connected, building confidence, developing friendships, expressing creativity and experiencing joy. At the heart of all these things is something every child deserves: play.
For many children, play is a natural part of everyday life. But for children and young people living with long-term health conditions, disabilities or additional support needs, opportunities to play can be limited by barriers that others may never have to consider. Frequent appointments, time away from school, fatigue, anxiety, inaccessible environments and social isolation can all affect a child’s ability to simply be a child.
That is why play is not a luxury. It is not an extra. It is a right.
More Than Just Fun
Play is often seen as something children do for enjoyment, but its impact goes much deeper. Through play, children learn about themselves and the world around them. They build communication skills, develop resilience, solve problems, manage emotions and form meaningful relationships.
Play can also have a powerful impact on physical and mental wellbeing. It helps children reduce stress, process difficult experiences and build confidence. For children living with health conditions, play can provide opportunities to regain a sense of control, explore their abilities and focus on what they can do rather than what they cannot.
When children play, they are not just passing time. They are growing, learning and thriving.
A Health Right and a Human Right
Every child has the right to play. This is recognised in Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that children have the right to rest, leisure, play, recreational activities and participation in cultural life.
Yet for too many children with health conditions, accessing these opportunities remains challenging.
At Children’s Health Scotland, we believe that every child should be able to enjoy their childhood, regardless of their health needs. Health rights are about more than receiving treatment when you are unwell. They are about having the opportunity to live a full life, participate in your community and experience the happiness, connection and confidence that play can bring.
The Healing Power of Play
Play can be particularly powerful in healthcare settings and for children managing long-term conditions.
Creative activities, games, storytelling, art and imaginative play can help children make sense of healthcare experiences and reduce fears around treatments and procedures. Play creates safe spaces where children can express feelings that may be difficult to put into words.
It can also help families reconnect during difficult periods. Shared experiences, laughter and moments of adventure create memories that strengthen relationships and support wellbeing for everyone involved.
Sometimes the most important outcomes cannot be measured on a chart or in a report. Sometimes they are found in a child’s smile, a new friendship, a burst of confidence or the courage to try something new.
Bringing the Right to Play to Life
Across our programmes, Children’s Health Scotland sees first-hand the impact that meaningful play can have.
Whether it is exploring castles, discovering new places, taking part in creative workshops, meeting animals, embarking on family adventures or connecting with other young people who understand their experiences, play opens doors. It helps children and families build self-management skills, reduces isolation and creates opportunities to simply have fun together.
These experiences remind us that children are not defined by their diagnosis. They are explorers, creators, adventurers, artists, storytellers and friends.
They are children first.
Why Play Matters More Than Ever
In an increasingly busy world, it can be easy to overlook the importance of play. Yet for children facing health challenges, play can be transformative.
It provides moments of normality during uncertain times. It encourages hope, builds confidence and helps children develop the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges.
Most importantly, it protects something that every child deserves: the opportunity to enjoy childhood.
A Message from Rhianne Forrest
Play has an incredible power to transform lives. Through my work with children and young people across Scotland, I’ve seen first-hand how play can build confidence, reduce anxiety, create friendships and help children feel seen beyond their health condition. Play gives children the opportunity to be creative, brave, adventurous and, most importantly, to simply be children. When we protect a child’s right to play, we are supporting their wellbeing, their development and their health. That’s why play isn’t just important, it’s essential.
Looking Forward
At Children’s Health Scotland, we will continue to champion the right of every child and young person to play, participate and thrive.
- Because every child deserves access to healthcare that respects their rights.
- Every child deserves opportunities to have fun, explore and connect.
- And every child deserves the chance to experience the power of play.
Want to know more about Health Related Play and trainings we offer?
Email us on CYPHRS@childrenshealthscotland.org
