This summer, the halls of Congress echoed with something a little different— the passionate voices of kids advocating for one powerful thing: the need for federal policies that support state and local efforts to make outdoor playspaces accessible for all kids.
It’s important for young leaders to speak up like this because we can’t officially vote yet, but we have thoughts and feelings about what is going on. Opportunities like these give us a chance to let our voice be heard and let the people making decisions know how we feel. Our voices are important too!” – Darius.
Five young advocates: Siara from Atlanta, GA, Darius from Baltimore, MD, Arwyn from Rochester, NY, Alaina from Tennessee, and Karsyn from Uvalde, TX traveled to Washington, D.C. with their parents to meet with lawmakers. They weren’t on the Hill to lobby for screen time or video games. They were there to talk about the need for outdoor play, playgrounds, recess, accessibility, safe neighborhoods, and community spaces—and how access to these opportunities shapes their health, development, and happiness.
“Having an inclusive playground that allows everyone to safely play together in their community is what KABOOM! is all about. Being able to play on a playground is how I can make friends most easily and it’s when our differences don’ t matter. When children play together, they develop a sense of community, belonging, and it is just fun!” – Alaina
Along with representatives from KABOOM!, they shared their stories—about how playgrounds bring joy and healing after unspeakable tragedy, the importance of spaces where all kids can play together, and how play helps them cope with stress and anxiety. Karsyn from Uvalde shared this sentiment about his experience, saying, “I had the opportunity to share how the KABOOM! playgrounds in Uvalde brought joy and healing after tragedy—something that touched not only me, but our entire town. To be able to speak before elected officials from the heart about the importance of safe, playful spaces for kids was powerful. I hope I made an impact to further funding that will benefit all kids.”
This is the second year in a row that the Zbar brand and KABOOM! have partnered together to bring kids and their families from across the country to meet with members of Congress so they can talk about the important role outdoor play has in their lives. “With KABOOM!’s support, we walked the halls of the House of Representatives and the Senate, speaking up for what’s right and making sure our voices were heard. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many passionate people, each one unique and fighting for their own communities. Everyone had a story, a purpose, and a vision for a better, more inclusive future.” – Siara
And what better messengers than the kids themselves?
For Arwyn, advocating for play is a family legacy. Her mother Heather got involved in play advocacy through early programming with local group Healthi Kids. Arwyn began speaking out at local meetings about the importance of play when she was just four years old. Inspired by her family and the broader community of advocates in Rochester, Arwyn has grown into a confident voice for children’s rights. This was the first time she took her advocacy to a federal level.
In the video on right Arywn gives KABOOM! our own American Sign Language name sign during her recent trip to Washington, D.C.
Seeing children speak directly to power—and be heard—is a powerful reminder of what advocacy can look like when it’s rooted in lived experience and youthful courage. These young leaders showed us that advocacy isn’t just about policy. It’s about people. And in this case, it’s about making sure every child has the chance to swing, slide, laugh, and just be a kid.
And thanks to these incredible kids, the importance of outdoor play is now part of the policy conversation at the highest level.
