Playworks brings out the best in every kid, through play.
We build a culture of play that enables kids to feel a real sense of belonging. Partnering with teachers, principals, and parents, we make sure kids have the opportunity to contribute on the playground, in the classroom, and in our community. A randomized control trial found that compared to students at similar schools, Playworks students were more physically active and teachers reported that students had greater feelings of school safety and less bullying behavior. Learn more about our impact.

Kids spend so much time in school learning the academic skills they need to be successful, but how much time do we spend teaching the lifelong skills kids need to succeed? Playworks gives us the opportunity to look at education as building humans, not just building students.
Carole Wilson Frye
Former Principal, Clarence Farrington Elementary, Indianapolis, IN
Discover Our Impact


October 8, 2019
Playworks Indiana 2018-2019 Impact Report ›
For over 20 years, Playworks has given kids foundational skills for success on the playground, in the classroom, and in the community. We are the leading organization that leverages play to promote healthy behaviors and increase social and emotional learning,…


The Journal Gazette
June 1, 2018
Recess rethought: Fun but also meaningful ›
Franke Park Elementary School is the envy of other Fort Wayne schools for what it will revamp next year—recess. Franke Park aims to make the playtime more meaningful with help from Playworks, a national nonprofit that helps schools rethink recess.


March 7, 2017
Coach Care Cares ›
A graduate of Carmel, Indiana schools, Coach Carolyn "Care" loves working in her hometown school district. Driven by her love of the outdoors and her desire to get all kids moving and outside every day to improve their well-being, Coach Care found…