The Power of Play: A Global Data Story

The Power of Play: A Global Data Story presents global evidence on children’s opportunities to play and highlights the critical role of play in early childhood development, learning, well-being, and resilience. Drawing on internationally comparable data, the report examines children’s access to play opportunities with caregivers and play materials across different regions and population groups. It explores disparities related to geography, income, and other demographic factors while emphasizing that play is fundamental to children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Beyond presenting global statistics, the report translates evidence into practical recommendations for governments, practitioners, and development partners, encouraging investments in policies and programmes that create supportive environments for play. The publication also provides detailed methodological notes, data sources, estimation methods, and interpretation guidance to ensure transparency and support evidence-informed decision-making