EYA - National Week of Play 2025

We all know that play is fundamental to children’s early learning and development – but how much value do we place on children taking in the lead in how they play?

Children’s play doesn’t always need expensive toys, complicated resources or even any adults to shape it. All it needs is a child’s imagination and their unique way of seeing the world – and the possibilities are endless.

That’s why this year’s Early Years Alliance National Week of Play is all about recognising the value of allowing children to play in their own unique way, and giving both educators and caregivers the confidence to support and encourage child-led play.

Through a range of free resources, blogs and virtual events – plus a fantastic exclusive early years expert-led podcast – we’ll celebrate the uniqueness of children’s play in all its forms, and explore what children’s play choices can tell us about how they are connecting with each other and the world around them.

Register for your FREE PLAY WEEK resource pack here.