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It's no coincidence, of course, that the symposium “The Power of Play” is taking place precisely on the International Day of Play, Wednesday 11 June 2025. The event is organised by the Dynamics of Youth community Thriving & Healthy Youth. The venue: Kanaal 30 in Utrecht.

The keynote lecture by Prof. Dr. Sergio Pellis (Lethbridge University, Canada) will cover the neurobiology and evolution of play. Afterwards, a diverse range of speakers will provide unique insights on the phenomenon of 'play'. The following questions will be addressed:

• What is play?
• What is the importance of play for brain and behaviour?
• What are applied games and why do they work so well?
• What is the importance of play for animal and human well-being?
• Why do children need and want risky play?
• How can we ensure that all children can play together, irrespective of (dis)abilities?

This symposium brings together leading experts in the field of play, all from different perspectives. 

Join in on a dynamic debate and network with researchers and practitioners committed to the play, cognition and wellbeing across species.

Working language

English