The Playmaker Network would like to head into the New Year with even more Playmakers taking action for play. Speaking out about the importance of unstructured play to community leaders is a great way to start!

Town hall, civic organizations and the PTA are always seeking guest speakers, relevant and pressing topics, and interesting presentations. Your presentation doesn't need to be long—just powerful and sincere, the rest will follow.

As an advocate for play, you have been working toward opportunities like this. You are now ready! Bring a fellow Play Committee or Advocacy Network member—and some children if it’s an appropriate setting—and share the message that ALL children need play for their healthy social, physical, and cognitive development. And, remember, always end with a powerful and specific request for action. Then follow up, follow up, and follow up. Your efforts could impact local ordinances, policies and funding for play!

We would love to hear how you went about it— the challenges you faced, what you learned and what action steps you will take next. Post your comments on the KaBOOM! forum under RALLY: Advocate for Play so that others can learn from your experience.