Play Scotland told MSPs that play is essential for the healthy development of children and are concerned at the lack of available open space for kids to play safely.
The charity submitted a petition to the Parliament calling on the Scottish Government to include a statutory duty for play in their forthcoming Children and Young People's Bill.
If successful, Play Scotland said it would "place a duty on local authorities to provide sufficient and satisfying play opportunities for children of all ages and abilities".
It is hoped it will lead to better facilities and protection of playparks and open spaces for children.
Marguerite Hunter Blair, chief executive of Play Scotland, said: "We want child-friendly communities in Scotland with green spaces where children can meet friends and play, walk safely in the streets on their own and participate in family, community and social life."
The charity identified a series of problems associated with the lack of play, including childhood obesity, mental health problems and bullying, and young people being unable to assess and manage risk.
The charity claims children have suffered a significant loss in their freedom to play over the past 40 years, with over cautious parents also a factor.
It said research has shown that 50% of children aged 7-12 are not allowed to climb a tree without an adult being present and that one in five children aged 7-12 have been stopped from playing conkers because it's 'considered too dangerous'.
Earlier this summer the Evening Times reported residents' and parents' concerns over a lack of investment in city parks.
Campaigners living near Victoria Park in the west of the city said they had raised the issue with the council but were told they were awaiting a Parks Management Plan.
Since the report, improvements and investment has been made to cut grass and repair broken equipment.
MSPs on the Public petition committee were supportive of the calls and decided to continue with the petition and bring others into the debate.
Sandra White, Kelvin SNP MSP, said: "It would be good to get the minister's view on this and the view of Cosla."
Committee convener David Stewart said the committee would seek the views of the Scottish Government, Cosla and the NHS on how play improve the lives of children.
stewart.paterson@ eveningtimes.co.uk
