Curious about organising a Voices of Play event or joining the movement for a National Play Manifesto? This FAQ is here to answer all your questions! Whether you’re an educator, community organizer, parent, or simply passionate about centering children’s voices, you’ll find everything you need to get started.
The “Voices of Play” initiative invites adults to step back and create spaces where kids can express themselves freely, through play, art, stories, and more. You don’t need a big budget, a fancy venue, or special credentials to participate, just a willingness to listen to the real play experts – children.
Dive in to discover how you can host your own “Voices of Play” event, by children, for children, and for everyone who cares about their joy and wellbeing!
- Who can host a Voices of Play event?
Any organization or individual working with children (below 18) can host. The guide is designed for flexibility—adapt it to your local context and age group. You don’t need special credentials to host, just a commitment to amplifying children’s voices.
- How do I pick a theme or content for my event?
You can choose from six “core pillars” from the Organisers Guide (English and Hindi) or develop your own, based on what resonates with the children you work with. The guide includes examples and suggestions.
- What is the ideal age group?
Capture voices from any age below 18. Many events in the Organisers Guide (English and Hindi) focus on younger children, but all are welcome. The manifesto will segment findings by age group.
- How many children or participants are needed?
There is no minimum or maximum—events can be with as few as 3–10 children or as many as 100+. The quality of engagement and authenticity matter more than numbers.
- Does the event have to be large or formal?
No! Small, informal, classroom or community gatherings are encouraged. You can even host it at family home, a park—wherever children feel safe and open to sharing. The scale of it does not matter.
- What activities should I conduct?
Use or adapt from the Organizer’s Guide’s Activity Bank: Drawing/play mapping, Group games, Storytelling, Simple facilitated conversations, Arts and crafts, Role play or dramatizations etc. Activities can be tailored to age, ability, and local culture.
- How do I ensure the event is child-led and inclusive?
Allow children to pick how they express themselves (speaking, art, play, etc.), Include all genders, backgrounds, and abilities. Let older children facilitate or guide younger ones when possible. Make participation voluntary and consent-driven.
- Can children respond in any language?
Yes, children can express themselves in any language they’re comfortable with. If possible, provide English translations of key quotes for documentation.
- What if some children are very young or unable to articulate their ideas?
Use art, drawing, free play, or observation to capture their thoughts and feelings. Document using photos or notes as appropriate.
- Is parental or guardian consent needed?
Yes, especially for collecting photos, quotes, audio or video. A consent template is available in the guide. Always prioritize privacy and safety.
- How do I document an event?
Capture direct quotes, observations, photos, videos, and artworks—with consent. Note age, context, and notable anecdotes. Include descriptions of activities and group demographics.
- What support/resources are available for organizers?
The Organisers Guide (English and Hindi) offers: Sample agendas and questions, Activity ideas, Consent templates, Process flows etc.
- Are there any deadlines?
If you would like to contribute to this phase of the National Play Manifesto, please submit your Voices Of Play Report to us by September 15th.
However, we encourage you to host your own series of events and make your own manifesto, at whatever pace works best for you. We would love to hear from you regardless, please reach out to us at supriya@shiksharth.in .
- Do I need to involve government officials, funders, or parents?
Not required! The focus is on children. If community leaders or guests help create a supportive space, include them. The only required “VIP” is the child.
- How much financial support would one need to host Voices Of Play Offline events?
The focus is on centering the children’s voice, creativity and participation are more important than scale or expenditure. While limited funds were available, the applications for the same have now closed. We will be reaching out to the applicants shortly.
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