Letters to the Editor: Play is not a luxury — it is essential for children

A reader says the lack of dedicated play areas in Irish schools is hampering children's development

Mark Harris points to the experience of New Zealand which has made significant investments in school playground infrastructure. FIle picture: Gareth Fuller/PA

I am writing to express my concern over a fundamental issue that seems to be largely overlooked in Ireland  — the lack of playgrounds in schools. It is astonishing that in a country that values education and child development, so many schools lack dedicated play areas where children can engage in unstructured, active play.

Play is not a luxury; it is an essential part of a child’s development. Research consistently shows that physical activity improves cognitive function, social skills, and overall wellbeing. Countries around the world prioritise playgrounds as a crucial part of school infrastructure — yet in Ireland, many children spend their breaks on bare concrete yards with little or no equipment to encourage movement and play.