Celebrated annually on 11 June, International Day of Play reminds us that play isn’t just fun; it’s an essential part of childhood development. It’s how children build confidence, communication skills, physical coordination, and social-emotional development—laying the foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. Early childhood play programs like Special Olympics Young Athletes bring this to life.
Young Athletes is an early childhood play program for children with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), ages 2 to 7 years old. It introduces basic sport skills, like running, kicking, and throwing, and provides children of all abilities the same opportunities to advance in core developmental milestones. Studies show that after two months of participation in Young Athletes, children with IDD experienced a seven-month gain in motor skills, improving at twice the rate of those who haven’t participated.
Young Athletes also offer families, teachers, caregivers, and community members the chance to share the joy of sports with all children. On International Day of Play, we're sharing family perspectives on how play is building the foundation for an inclusive future.
Abbas Khalil Ibrahim –Special Olympics Iraq–Young Athlete
Our son Abbas is four and a half years old. He's a vibrant child who fills our home with energy, joy, and smiles. He loves to play and explore, and enjoys spending time with his family, especially when we share games and activities he loves. Although he doesn't have any siblings, he's always looking for opportunities to play and interact with other children, and he feels immense happiness when he's with a group of his peers.
Over the past few years, we've learned that play isn't just a form of entertainment or recreational activity for Abbas; it's how he discovers the world around him and expresses himself. We've noticed a clear improvement in his communication and interaction skills, and he's become more independent and confident in his interactions with others.
Since joining the Special Olympics Young Athlete Program, we've seen wonderful positive changes in his daily life. He's become more adventurous in trying new things, better able to follow instructions, and more willing to participate in group activities. The program has also helped him develop his motor and social skills in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Today, when we see Abbas laughing, playing, and interacting with other children with greater confidence, we feel grateful for every opportunity that has helped him grow and learn. He still has a lot to discover and learn, but the best thing about it is that he is living his childhood joyfully, and enjoying every moment of play, because for him play is not just an activity, but a window through which he looks out at the world.
Karma Ahmed Abdel-Khaleq–Special Olympics Egypt–Young Athlete
In the Helwan district of Cairo, lives an 8-year-old Karma Ahmed Abdel-Khaleq, whose story reflects the true meaning of play and its impact on children's lives. Karma is the youngest member of her family, with a brother who has Down syndrome and a sister who shares many happy moments and memories with her.
Karma makes sure to spend her time every day playing with her siblings and friends. She finds in play a space to express herself, discover her abilities, and build new friendships. For her, play is not just a recreational activity; it represents a world full of learning, experiences, and joy.
Karma's family emphasizes that play is a fundamental right for every child. It is an important means that helps children to communicate with others, develop their social and motor skills, and gain experiences that support their personal growth and learning. The family also believes that play contributes to boosting self-confidence and gives children the opportunity to discover their talents and abilities in fun and happy moments. On International Day of Play, Karma represents a wonderful example for children who find in play an opportunity to grow, learn, and build bridges of love and communication with those around them, confirming that every moment of play is a new step towards a brighter and happier future for all children.
Through Young Athletes, Special Olympics brings play to life in homes, schools, and communities around the world—offering children of all abilities the chance to develop motor skills, make friends, and experience the joy of movement.
Looking for healthy developmental play activities you can do at home? Download the Young Athletes App (available on Google Play and Apple) for personalized activities you and your child can start today.
