Play strategy for Scotland: our vision

SECTION 1: EVERY CHILD'S RIGHT

Play is fundamental to children and young people's quality of life but first and foremost it is a child's right and one which the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child ( UNCRC) is keen to see actively applied. The Scottish Government has responsibility for implementing the UNCRC in Scotland, addressing the Committee's recommendations appropriate to local requirements.

Scotland warmly welcomes the UN General Comment on article 31 adopted by the Committee in 2013. The General Comment provides interpretation of the article in detail and aims to raise awareness of its importance, promote a richer understanding of the content and provide guidance for its implementation. It also promotes the child's right to play in the context of supporting all children and young people's rights.

We are confident that, with relevant action to ensure article 31 is appropriately implemented in homes, nurseries, schools and communities including registered childcare settings such as out of school care services, nurseries and playgroups this will support Scotland's children in their journey through childhood and adolescence and into adulthood. It will allow our children and young people to participate in their communities, enhancing their role as part of that community and developing their resilience, confidence and skills to engage as citizens.

Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child states that every child has the right to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child and to participate freely in cultural life and the arts.