Playing is a basic need for children, just like eating, sleeping or drinking. Early and diversified playing facilitates language, reading and writing skills. In traumatic situations, playing allows children to cope better and release their aggression. Toys are children’s tools to play better.

TIE is proud of the contributions made by toys and play to children’s development. Central to our work are diverse activities that raise awareness of the positive role that toys play in society.

Play and toys are fundamental in the lives of children

• Play is a child's work
• Play is the primary way children learn and develop skills for life
• Play keeps children active and happy
• Play is indispensable for the child's emotional equilibrium

Play is an essential part of growing up

The right to play is enshrined in the UN Convention and TIE has long supported initiatives which promote children’s rights and their healthy development. In this context, TIE applauded the decision of the European Commission to launch a specific strategy to promote and protect children’s rights.

The importance of play increases in extremely traumatic situations. Play can be a coping mechanism as it helps relieve children’s tension and cope with emotional trauma.

Toys play a valuable role

Playful children are happier, better adjusted, more co-operative and more popular with their peers than those that play less.

 Research has found that play is significantly related to: