On Feb. 5, students at Helen B. Duffield Elementary took part in Global School Play Day, an event designed to encourage independent play and creativity. For the special day, students brought in their favorite toys and games from home, creating an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie as they played in groups.

During Global School Play Day, students are encouraged to engage in free play without the use of screens, structured games or adult direction. The idea is to let children explore their creativity, problem-solving skills and social interactions in an unstructured and spontaneous environment.

It’s believed that play is a crucial aspect of a child’s social, emotional and cognitive development. Global School Play Day was created to bring attention to the value of play in learning and to foster a global conversation about the role of play in education.

Click here to view the Duffield Elementary celebrates Global School Play Day slideshow.