There is much policy the party can be proud of, particularly in tackling child poverty, but there are astonishing omissions. I looked carefully but could find no mention of play. Quality play is essential to children's intellectual, social and physical development. Play is "the business of childhood" but it would appear too frivolous to include.
The Government has encouraged children's participation. For example, it is a requirement of the Children's Fund. Giving children a say in the services that affect them is not just good management but key to the development of citizenship. So why no mention of it in the manifesto?
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