A voluntary body representing pre-school play groups has claimed that Ireland's children are "overly protected" and are losing out on the benefits of play.
The Irish Preschool Play Association (IPPA) said Ireland's children are "bubble-wrapped" due to excessive pressure over test results and overly scheduled and structured activities.
Calling on parents to create more play opportunities for their children over the Easter holidays, the IPPA said: "Children become mini entrepreneurs through play - investing their talent and energy into developing the game. Play gives children the ability to connect with their environment and with others.
"For a young child there is nothing quite like making friends and connections within their peer group - that means learning to observe, to read body language, to negotiate, to assess risk, to assert themselves and to co-operate."
The issue will be addressed at a conference in April entitled "Bubble-wrapped children - are we overprotecting our children".