Playworks Illinois
Playworks helps kids stay active and build valuable social and emotional skills through play.
About
All kids deserve the social, emotional, and physical benefits of play. We help schools and youth programs create healthy play environments where every child can join in.
Latest News
December 4, 2019
Oregon State University Study Finds High-Quality Recess Positively Impacts Student Behaviors ›
A recent study by the Oregon State University College of Public Health and Human Services found that high-quality recess contributes to the executive function, emotional self-control, resilience, and positive classroom behavior in elementary school children. While past studies explored the benefits related to the amount of recess time, this is the first study to address…
Edsurge.com
November 20, 2019
Rethinking Recess Leads to Results On and Off the Playground ›
At first glance, it looks like your standard recess at Eliza Chappell Elementary School. But upon closer inspection, what is happening outside during recess is in fact rather unusual. Every student is occupied with one activity or another—even those on the jungle gym. The games are clear, organized and inclusive. And a specially trained coach…
November 7, 2019
Give Kids the Childhood They Deserve ›
When kids feel included and supported at recess, they’re more likely to thrive in school and in life. Everyone deserves a chance to become the best possible version of themselves. Kids need us to make that possible for them. Not all kids feel like they fit in at school. Feeling safe and like you belong is…
November 6, 2019
Playworks Named 2019 Top-Rated Nonprofit ›
Playworks is proud to receive the 2019 Top-Rated Award by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews about nonprofit organizations. “Playworks is a great example of a nonprofit making a real difference in their community,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. “Their award is well-deserved recognition not only of their work, but the tremendous support…
Upcoming Events
June 20, 2020 @ 10:30 AM
Playworks Illinois 9th Annual Kickball Tournament ›
Lace up your sneakers and kick a home run for safe and healthy play. It’s time for our 9th Annual Kickball Tournament! Playworks Illinois’ Kickball Tournament offers local businesses the…
October 23, 2020 @ 6:00 PM
Get in the Game 2020 ›
Save the date for our 7th Annual Get in the Game Gala on Friday, October 23, 2020 at Stagg Court at the Chicago Athletic Association from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.. This…
A Better Recess
Instead of going back to class energized and ready to learn after recess, kids often return upset and unable to focus. We can change this. At a great recess:
Kids are at their best
Kids bring out the best in themselves and each other. They learn the value of fair play, compassion, and respect. They practice key social and emotional skills.
Kids become leaders
They run their own games and settle their disputes quickly (we recommend rock, paper, scissors) because getting along is more fun than fighting.
Kids choose to be active
When all students are included and all students know how to play popular games, every child has the opportunity to discover the joy of active play.
