Aussie Study Showcases the Impact of Play on Bringing Children Together

Aussie Parents Champion Cultural Diversity

3 in 4 (64%) Australian parents believe socialising with children from different backgrounds, cultures and abilities, is the most effective way for their child to understand the world around them. However, an alarming 29% of parents reveal their child has a lack of exposure to other cultures and abilities, or they are unsure how to facilitate these connections. Therefore, the universal language of creative play can step in as the most effective form of play – bringing children together, according to two-thirds of Australian parents (64%).

Mending the Disconnect: Recognizing the Impact of Play

New research from LEGO Australia highlights the potential of play in fostering connection and understanding among children from varied backgrounds. The ‘Building Bridges’ report commissioned by LEGO Australia explored how the power of play could help children develop skills for learning about people that don’t “look like them”. With 25% of Australian children being raised with a diverse cultural influence and 16% with a disability, LEGO sought to showcase the potential of play in connecting families.

Brick by Brick, Connections Click

In deepening the understanding of these findings, LEGO Australia conducted a social experiment dubbed the ‘Social Play Experiment’. The experiment was designed to examine how interactions between children can impact their understanding of others. Led by child psychology expert, Dr Penny Van Bergen, the experiment brought together children of varied backgrounds, cultures, abilities and ages in contrasting environments – one filled with toys while the other devoid of play or stimulation. The results were clear, play unites – and for this, Dr Van Bergen couldn’t agree more, stating, “Play really is a universal language.”

The Power of Play: Championing Play For Everybody

LEGO Group Vice President and General Manager of Australia and New Zealand, Troy Taylor, urged children to use the power of play to transform ordinary interactions into moments of extraordinary meaning this festive season. With the findings from the ‘Building Bridges’ report supporting the importance of play in a child’s development, parents and caregivers are encouraged to be advocates for the value of play in their children’s lives. Echoing Taylor’s sentiments, beloved children’s entertainer and former member of The Wiggles, Emma Watkins, also champions the power of play saying, “Through the power of play, we have an opportunity to broaden our children’s perception and understanding of the world while creating memorable, meaningful and enriching experiences.”

See the results yourself!

About the Research

The research was conducted in October 2023 by Antenna, with a sample of 1,080 Australian parents, grandparents, and carers. Respondents were sourced using an accredited online research access panel. Data was weighted for representation against Australian 2021 census data.

LEGO Australia reveals play unites - new study reveals

Final Takeaways

As we wrap up, it’s clear the results of the “Building Bridges” report point to a paradigm shift we need to adopt immediateiy, not only as parents but as a society. Recognising and harnessing the transformative power of play early in life can lead to a more empathetic, understanding, and harmonious future for everyone. Play is not just about having fun – it’s about learning to appreciate the richness of our diverse world.

Encouraging Action

So, parents, caregivers, and educators, what’s our call to action? Simple – let’s PLAY! When opportunities for interaction with children from various cultures and abilities arise, champion those moments. The results could be transformative in creating a more inclusive, understanding generation. Cultivating connections through play may just be our most significant pathway towards understanding and acceptance.

Light Up the Festive Season with Play

As we ignite the festive flair across Australia and New Zealand, let’s strive to give our children a Christmas rich with play, connection, and unity. With LEGO’s support, let’s use this festive season to bridge gaps and celebrate diversity – because it’s the diversity that makes us rich as a nation!

See the results and join us in this exciting adventure of unity through play! Together, we can shape a brighter, more understanding future for all Australian children.

The joy of play is universal – so let’s spread the joy!

Happy Holidays!

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