Bringing back the joy of play: Why it matters more than ever

Bringing back the joy of play: Why it matters more than ever
Childhood looks a lot different today. With more screen time and packed schedules, kids have fewer opportunities for unstructured play. However, one thing hasn’t changed—play remains essential for children’s growth and development. 

At Camp Australia, we’re committed to bringing play back through our Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) programs. We offer kids the freedom to explore, create, and connect in ways that screens and structured activities can’t replace. 

Why play is more than just fun
Play isn’t just about having fun—it’s how kids learn best. Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, a leading child psychologist, says that play supports kids’ cognitive, social, and emotional growth (The Sector, March 2025). Through play, children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and resilience—things that rigid schedules and screen time can’t teach. 

At Camp Australia, we design our OSHC programs around play-based learning. Whether it’s arts and crafts, outdoor games, or group challenges, we create an environment where kids can build friendships, try new things, and grow in confidence. 

Building connections through play 
Play also helps kids connect with others. In the past, children of all ages played together, allowing older kids to mentor younger ones. Today, with more time spent indoors and distracted by screens, those natural interactions are disappearing. 

That’s why our OSHC programs bring kids of different ages together, encouraging teamwork and leadership. Older kids help guide younger ones, and everyone benefits from a stronger sense of belonging. 

Less screen time, more growth 
We all know that too much screen time can lead to shorter attention spans, less physical activity, and weaker social skills. Despite the pressures of modern life, parents still recognise the value of real play experiences (The Sector, March 2025). 

At Camp Australia, we provide screen-free play that encourages movement, creativity, and problem-solving. Our programs help kids rediscover the joy of active, social play—something that’s more important than ever in today’s digital world. 

Let’s make play a priority 
Camp Australia’s OSHC programs offer more than just supervision—they give kids the space to play, grow, and thrive. By choosing our programs, parents can be confident their children are getting the right balance of fun and development. 

Find out more about Your OSHC.