FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Nicole Centinaro
Coyne Public Relations
973-588-2000
ncentinaro@coynepr.com

 


The Genius of Play Launches New Public Service Announcement Campaign

“Dear Parents” Campaign Encourages Families to Mix Up the Way They Play

New York – March 20, 2018 | The Genius of Play, a national movement to raise awareness about play’s critical role in child development and encourage more play in children’s lives, today announced the release of its award-winning “Dear Parents” public service announcement (PSA) campaign. Each PSA takes a unique look at play from a child’s perspective and explains to parents how a balanced mix of play offers kids a variety of benefits.

“In order for kids to receive the maximum benefits from play time, they should engage in different types of play that help develop different skills. For example, playing with blocks and puzzles has been found to build spatial awareness, while pretend play with stuffed animals, dolls and action figures has been linked to improved vocabulary,” said Nancy Schulman, Head of the Early Learning Center at Avenues: The World School and an expert for The Genius of Play. “The Dear Parents campaign and additional resources available on TheGeniusofPlay.org will help inspire parents and provide ideas they can use to encourage their child’s healthy growth through play.”

The campaign consists of four PSAs:

  • “Dear Parents: Crazy" (:60) features a boy reading a letter to parents that highlights the different skills that play provides.
  • “Dear Parents: Pop Quiz" (:30) a girl pretends to be a teacher, quizzing parents about the best kind of play for kids.
  • "Dear Parents: Time Out" (:30) portrays a boy dressed as a super hero taking a time out to tell parents how great play is.
  • "Dear Parents: Rocket Science" (:30) a young scientist discusses how certain kinds of play can provide different benefits than others.

The "Dear Parents" PSAs have won the Association Trends All Media Contest award which recognizes the best and most unique marketing and communications programs by organizations. The PSAs are currently available for digital download at: www.c360m.com/PSAConnect/toyfoundation/.

For additional information about The Genius of Play and healthy play habits for kids, visit TheGeniusofPlay.org.

About The Genius of Play

The Genius of Play is a national movement to raise awareness of play’s vital role in child development, spearheaded by the Toy Association. Deeply rooted in research and facts, The Genius of Play is a leading resource on the physical, cognitive, social and emotional benefits of play that serve children throughout their lives. The Genius of Play enables today’s busy parents and caretakers to use the power of play to help raise a happier, healthier, and more productive next generation. Visit www.TheGeniusOfPlay.org for easily accessible play ideas and tips, expert advice and other play resources. It’s More Than Play!