'Play overlooked in pandemic response' - expert comment
30 September 2025

Dr Naomi Lott, from the ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø School of Law and an expert on children's right to play, said:
"The pandemic saw many measures across society brought in quickly to curb the spread of the virus. While everyone was impacted by lockdowns and restrictions on our movement, children were particularly affected due to their loss of play, especially playing outdoors or with other children.
"This oversight laid bare an entrenched misunderstanding about children's play that exists in government and wider society. We have very clear evidence that play is fundamental to children’s wellbeing and is the doorway to education, physical and mental health, future potential, and development. Yet for many children during the pandemic the ability to play was removed completely. Children without gardens or siblings, or in overcrowded housing, were particularly impacted.
"Even once it was clear that most children were at much lower risk from the virus, or from catching it or passing it to others, the restrictions on their play remained. This reflects a deep-seated disregard of children’s rights, needs, and position in society, and a completely erroneous perception of children’s play as frivolous. If we want all children to be healthier, happier, and learn better, we can start very simply by guaranteeing their right to play."