California passed a resolution just yesterday declaring June 11 as International Day of Play (IDOP), marking it as the first West Coast state to embrace the new holiday. In addition to celebrating IDOP, the California State Legislature also officially recognized Mattel for its role as a leader in the world of play.
A global network of industry leaders spearheaded the IDOP movement, including Mattel, The LEGO Group, the International Play Association, Sesame Workshop, and more. This year, the U.N. General Assembly officially adopted the holiday.
“As a parent I know, first-hand, that play is an essential part of a developing child’s life,” says Senator Ben Allen, Vice Chair, Joint Committee on the Arts. “Play provides an engaging way to nurture creativity and imagination, build social skills, and support a child’s emotional and psychological well-being.”
Following the presentation of the Day of Play resolution, Mattel introduced its IDOP play kits to the legislators. Each kit is full of Mattel toys and will be donated to Save the Children.
Mattel has a full schedule of plans for IDOP. The company will have a number of co-branded promotions available at Target from June 9-15. The Mattel Children’s Foundation will also donate 100,000 toys and books to Save the Children programs. Finally, Mattel plans to host play kit builds at a variety of locations.
Mattel is honored to serve as ambassadors in championing International Day of Play in California. Our purpose is to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential and we are proud to support this inaugural moment to help provide children with the opportunity to embrace their fundamental right to play and thrive.
Beyond Mattel’s IDOP plans, the company will hold its annual Play It Forward Global Volunteer Week later this month. Employees from a number of Mattel offices will give time to local nonprofits. More information about Mattel’s charity efforts can be found on the company’s official webpage.
