jats:titleAbstract</jats:title>jats:pThe COVID‐19 pandemic and lockdown regulations introduced many changes to children's everyday lives, including play, creating a unique pandemic experience for children. For this qualitative study, 15 children (ages 3–10) participated in virtual interviews on play during the pandemic between August and October 2020. While children recognised changes to play, it had persisted despite restrictions—play itself was not on lockdown. Children showed that play remained valuable and was an expression of adaptability, confidence and positivity. These considerations can help us support children's childhoods during crises, as children are members of society with rights to voice their opinions on matters affecting their lives.</jats:p>