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.
A Well-Rounded Student
“Playworks gives students the opportunity to have fun in a productive way. It really helps our students become the kinds of collaborators and teammates that we want them to be.”
– Moira Thomas
Teacher at Academy of the Americas Elementary-Middle School
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.
Latest News
December 15, 2020
Top 6 Games to Play Virtually ›
Many educators have risen to the challenge of transitioning their lessons to accommodate virtual education, and Playworks has been helping educators ensure play remains in every child’s day, even online. Kids prioritize play, and with our support educators are leveraging play when teaching virtually in order to keep kids engaged, active, and to build community.…
October 6, 2020
Using Play to Foster Social Connections and Physical Activity ›
Play isn’t just fun and games – it’s a vital aspect of our health and well-being. When we play, we engage our bodies, minds, and senses, creating opportunities for increased physical activity, learning, and connection with others. Play can even help relieve stress and support the development of important social-emotional skills, including communication and cooperation.…
September 3, 2020
How Equity, Trauma, and Play Intersect ›
The play opportunity gap Play is critical for healthy child development as it is a safe way for kids to experiment and practice building relationships and cooperating with others. And yet, even in normal circumstances before COVID-19, there wasn’t an equal opportunity for every kid to play. We need to make sure this disparity does…
August 17, 2020
Back to School, Back to Play ›
Donate Now As children prepare to go “back” to school – whether in-person, virtual or a hybrid of the two, we know that schools and educators are developing varied plans for reopening. No matter what variation of learning – online or in-person – schools and parents offer for the upcoming school year, Playworks…
Regional Partners
Get in Touch
We help schools and youth programs create healthy play environments where every child can join in. Contact us to find out more about Playworks Michigan.
