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
May 20, 2020
Play At Home: Week of May 25, 2020 ›
Social-Emotional Skill of the Week: Social Awareness Social awareness is the ability to empathize with and understand the perspective of someone else, even though their background and culture might be different from yours. Resources for the Week of May 25, 2020 Game of the Day Challenge Are you ready to #PlayAtHome? We are challenging students…
May 15, 2020
How schools can approach recess in the 2020 school year ›
How can principals incorporate COVID-19 lessons into recess next school year? 1. Teach games that allow for physical distance. Educators can/should intentionally plan recesses that enable kids to play while meeting expectations for social or physical distance. 2. Prepare for virtual game facilitation. Kids can continue to have access to play during the school day…
May 13, 2020
Play At Home: Week of May 18, 2020 ›
Social-Emotional Skill of the Week: Self-Regulation Self-regulation is the ability to successfully manage our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Resources for the Week of May 18, 2020 Game of the Day Challenge Are you ready to #PlayAtHome? We are challenging students and families to learn and play one new game each day! This week’s Game Challenge…
May 8, 2020
Play At Home: Week of May 11, 2020 ›
Schools are closed. Sports are canceled. Recess is still on schedule. Playworks knows that children need physical activity and social-emotional support now more than ever in order to successfully navigate this turbulent time. We launched #PlayAtHome to share new resources for kids, families, and school partners: On-Demand Video Content: need game ideas? Check out these…
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.
