We Are Free to Play

UNICEF Canada defines this domain of wellbeing as having free time and space for self-directed play, accessible and welcoming opportunities, and a healthy balance between leisure, responsibilities, physical activity, sleep, and screen time. It also includes time with friends and being outdoors, while managing pressures from school, work, or family. Our research asks: How much free or recreational time do young people spend online, and what impact does digital play have on their wellbeing?

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Watch Digital Portraits

Hear directly from Canadian Gen Z youth in these short videos. Filmed 2024–2025.

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to choose from 28 videos

Mini Literature Review

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Resources

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Research – Reports, articles, findings, background reading

For Youth – Interactive tools, guides, and activities designed for youth

Supporting Youth – Resources for educators, parents, policymakers, and practitioners

Canada's State of the Youth Report

Government of Canada

Results and recommendations from consultations with 996 young people across Canada, in youth-identified priority areas including Health and Wellness.

Read the Report

Teen Digital Wellbeing Guide

Susan Crown Exchange

A guide to explore digital wellbeing and co-design solutions with teens. Includes 3 activities recommended grades 8-12...but we could all benefit!

Get the Guide

TrevorSpace - LGBTQ+

Trevor Project, USA based

An online social community for LGBTQ+ young people between 13-24 years old. Moderated online safe space and support groups, with over 400,000 members across the globe.

Visit Now

Screens, Mental + Physical Health

Children and Screens

Searchable list of Podcasts, Scholarly Articles, and Tip Sheets. Search by Ages from 0-2 to 14-18 years old. Search Mental Health, Physical Health, Sleep Health in Topics.

Explore the Research

Screens and Sleep

Children and Screens

A visual digest of current research: a printable and accessible resource with current and quality research on screen media’s effects on children’s sleep health.

Get the Digest