Crestview Preparatory School Celebrates the Joy of Unstructured Play on Global School Play Day
On Friday, February 7th, 2025, Crestview Preparatory School joined schools worldwide in celebrating Global School Play Day (GSPD), a movement that began in 2015 to promote unstructured play in schools. The day was a resounding success at Crestview, as students immersed themselves in free play without the use of screens or adult direction. Instead, they had the opportunity to use their imaginations, engage in creative problem-solving, and develop important social skills through cooperative play.
From the moment GSPD began, the school buzzed with creativity and excitement. Students built forts and Lego structures, they designed costumes out of cardboard boxes, and they made artwork using an assortment of craft supplies. Others played cards and board games, created imaginative storylines with puppets and other toys, or engaged in sports and other group games with classmates. Throughout the day, the variety of activities blended seamlessly, creating a lively yet harmonious atmosphere filled with laughter and joy.
Teachers and staff, who didn’t hesitate to join in the fun, were amazed by the sense of community that unfolded. Playgroups formed organically, older and younger students collaborated effortlessly, and children found inventive ways to repurpose materials and create new games. It was a powerful reminder of the social, emotional, and cognitive benefits of unstructured play.
As we reflect on this memorable day, we hope that the spirit of GSPD continues to inspire conversations about the importance of play—both in and out of the classroom. The creativity, laughter, and connections formed during this special event were a testament to the lasting impact of giving children the freedom to explore, imagine, and simply play.
At Crestview Preparatory School, we believe childhood is extraordinary. As an independent school serving children in TK through sixth grade, we cultivate academic excellence by nurturing individual potential, empowering students to learn joyfully, and helping them discover their unique talents within a caring community. Guided by our core values—Community, Responsibility, Empathy, Sincerity, and Thinking—we empower students to become thoughtful innovators and compassionate leaders. Our enriched curriculum fosters curiosity, exploration, and a lifelong love of learning. Learn more at crestviewprep.org.
Crestview Preparatory School, 140 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada Flintridge, (818) 952-0925 or visit www.crestviewprep.org.
