The international forum will focus on the right to play of children growing up in deprived circumstances around the world. Entitled, ‘The Child’s Right to Play – International Perspectives, Local Action’, it is designed to provide an opportunity for all of those with an interest in the area, including childcare students, teachers and pupils to discuss the issues, share knowledge and ideas.

Children’s rights specialists from around the world such as Nicaragua and Thailand will speak at the event plus Marguerite Hunter Blair, Chief Executive of Play Scotland.

On the agenda for discussion will be Article 31 in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the child’s right to play. Controversy over advocating the right to play for children living in difficult circumstances in the UK and across the world will also be up for debate.

Theresa Casey, President of the International Play Association, who will also speak at the forum said:

“Article 31, the child's right to play, has been called 'the most neglected right' in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. In the face of increasing barriers to children's play around the world, the International Play Association is determined to improve this situation.

“It is widely accepted that play is vital to the healthy development and well-being of children; first-hand case studies from Nicaragua and Northern Thailand will illustrate some of the challenges and opportunities in advocating for the right to play of children growing up in the challenging circumstances, while the Scottish context will allow us to share the lessons. Play is the essence of childhood and a world with increasing barriers to play is hardly a ‘world fit for children’.”

Jane Carruthers, Curriculum Manger for Childcare and Education at Edinburgh’s Telford College added:

“The College is honoured to host this prestigious event and to welcome fellow specialists to the College. We see this as a fantastic opportunity to develop our engagement with the International Play Association and its members”.

The forum will take place on 6 June in Telford College, Edinburgh.