Ricketts supports national Play Day

WASHINGTON, D.C.  - Sen. Pete Ricketts joined Democrat Chris Murphy to introduce a resolution to designate a national day of play.

The resolution comes amid the U.S. surgeon general’s declaration of an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation.

Ricketts said the resolution encourages people to spend time with family and friends on the first Saturday after the spring equinox.

He urges citizens to join across churches, schools and communities to enjoy our neighbors and remember to have fun.

Murphy said children are miserable because play times has been replaced with time online.

He said the resolution affirms the importance of play for kids and gives them an opportunity to unplug and play with friends.

 Here is the senator's press release

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Over the weekend, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduced a resolution to designate the first Saturday after the Spring Equinox as the annual “National Day of Play.”  The resolution passed by unanimous consent.  Amid what the Surgeon General has declared an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation, the National Day of Play encourages all Americans to spend time with family and friends.

 

“There’s nothing better than a day well spent with family and friends.  Play builds social connection, sharpens the mind, and keeps us young at heart,” said Ricketts.  “We must combat the loneliness epidemic.  Let’s join together across our churches, schools, and communities to enjoy our neighbors and remember to have fun.  On National Day of Play, share a smile, play a game, make a new friend, and enjoy your loved ones!”

 

“Any parent can tell you it’s a really tough time to be a kid. Our kids’ worlds have moved online and it’s making them miserable,” said Murphy. “I’m proud to sponsor this resolution because play is a really important part of growing up and we have to do more to give our kids the opportunity to just unplug and play with their friends.”