IPA is an international non-governmental organization founded in 1961.

It provides a forum for exchange and action across disciplines and across sectors.

IPA’s purpose is to protect, preserve and promote the child’s right to play as a fundamental human right.

            ~Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

“That every child has the right to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child and to participate freely in cultural life and the arts.

That member governments shall respect and promote the right of the child to participate fully in cultural and artistic life and shall encourage the provision of appropriate and equal opportunities  for cultural, artistic, recreational and leisure activity.”

Our Structure

IPA has a small administrative Board of Directors, and a Council of national representatives. All work as volunteers.
[Board of Directors] [IPA/UN Liaison] [World Council]

Member Groups

IPA has members in close to 60 countries, and active groups in

  • Argentina
  • Canada
  • Germany
  • India
  • New Zealand
  • Portugal
  • USA
  • Australia
  • England
  • Hong Kong
  • Nigeria
  • Sweden
  • Taiwan
  • Ukraine
  • Brazil
  • No.Ireland
  • Israel
  • Japan
  • Netherlands
  • Scotland
  • Turkey
  • Wales

IPA member groups initiate a wide variety of projects that promote the child’s right to play. These include seminars, conferences, study tours, research, publications, playground design, playwork training and the organization of play programs and Play Days. National groups often collaborate with other organizations which promote the well-being of children and children’s rights.