Every year, National Playday calls on everyone to celebrate and show why play is fundamental for children’s development and enjoyment of childhood.
To mark Playday 2025, NHS Lanarkshire’s Health Improvement Team worked with various NHS colleagues and local community groups to attend North Lanarkshire Council’s event at Summerlee Heritage Centre.
Children and families enjoyed a packed day of interactive activities — from friendly dinosaurs having their teeth brushed, a visit from Bookbug, drawing and colouring in, learning about healthy food through fruit and veg bingo, ‘what’s in the box’, bubble snakes, an imagination station and more.
The exciting event was held on Wednesday 6 August, where various members of the team attended to welcome children, parents and carers to have a great summer day out to celebrate all things play. The day also supported the importance of promoting spaces which encourage fun, friendship, being active, enjoying nature, and building a strong sense of belonging — and encourages families and communities to come together.
Mark Kay, Senior Health Promotion Officer: Children & Young People, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “The theme of this year’s Playday highlights that better spaces for play are for everyone. The vital importance of quality spaces can support children and young people’s happiness, physical and emotional health, wellbeing, and connection to the world around them.
“Play happens everywhere, every day, and is the right of every child and young person. It’s not just fun, it’s essential.
“This event encourages families, communities, and organisations large and small to think about how they can create better, more inclusive spaces where all children can play.
“It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying the day together. We’re already looking forward to next year’s celebration.”
