(Feature Impact) As the world comes together around the excitement of international soccer on a global stage, it’s a reminder that every child deserves safe opportunities to play, learn and simply be a child.

Play is essential to childhood – yet globally, about 1 in 7 children under the age of 5 do not have toys or playthings at home, according to UNICEF. Through play, children make sense of the world around them, building critical skills from problem-solving and creativity to physical strength, confidence and the social and emotional tools needed to connect and thrive. In times of crisis, play takes on an even greater role, helping restore a sense of stability, familiarity and joy when children need it most.

While many families may spend this summer cheering on teams, signing children up for sports or playing outside together, millions of children affected by conflict, disaster and displacement still lack safe places to play at all. From the United States to Lebanon – and across more than 150 countries and territories – UNICEF supports safe spaces where children can play, learn and connect. The organization works with caregivers, schools and governments to bring play into classrooms and communities, particularly for children affected by conflict, displacement and poverty.

“For children living through crisis, play is not optional, it is essential,” said UNICEF USA President and CEO Michael J. Nyenhuis. “Play offers a sense of stability and connection, helping children cope and continue to grow despite adversity. Our organization is committed to ensuring every child can access safe, inclusive opportunities to play because this fundamental right is critical to their well-being, development and future because play can’t wait.”

Play should be safe everywhere children are, both online and offline. Every child deserves environments that protect their safety, privacy and well-being while ensuring inclusion for children with disabilities and those most marginalized. Still, safe play spaces are shrinking, and childhood can’t be put on pause. Access to safe play supports learning, emotional well-being and healthy development.

Sometimes, something as simple as a ball, jump rope or shared game can help children reconnect with joy and normalcy. Consider supporting the mission with these UNICEF Inspired Gifts that help bring the power of play to children everywhere:

• 5 Soccer Balls for Kids to Exercise and Play: Soccer fosters connection, teamwork and a sense of normalcy. As the world unites around global moments of international competition, a simple ball can help bring the same spirit of unity and joy to children everywhere, so they can keep the world’s game in play, no matter their circumstances.
• Recreation-in-a-Box: Designed for impact at scale, this kit includes basketballs, soccer balls and other recreational supplies to provide enough equipment for more than 90 children to play, move and have fun together.
• 30 Jump Ropes for Kids to Exercise to Play: A simple yet powerful tool. Providing 30 jump ropes to child-friendly spaces and schools allows children affected by crisis to gather, play and reconnect with childhood through movement and shared activity.

The nonprofit organization supports parents and caregivers worldwide by expanding access to early childhood education rooted in learning through play. Together, these efforts help turn the right to play into a reality for every child.

When play is protected, childhood is protected. To help children everywhere access safe opportunities to play, visit unicefusa.org/chooseplay.