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
January 10, 2023
Understanding the Complex Simplicities of Play ›
Play is a behavior that is natural and has existed for thousands of years and across species. It combines a set of made-up rules or norms and a willingness to explore. Researchers, scientists, and doctors have studied the effects of play on kids–and adults–and understand that this natural behavior has tremendous benefits. As the American…
Crain's Detroit Business
October 18, 2022
Playworks Michigan names new executive director ›
Playworks Michigan named Vincent Kirkwood as the new executive director. Through coordinated playground programs and trainings with schools and youth organizations, Playworks aims to help children learn empathy, conflict resolution, problem-solving and self-regulation, while also increasing their daily physical activity.
Manistee News Advocate
October 14, 2022
MAPS implements program to cut down on playground bullying ›
Manistee Area Public Schools has implemented a new program in order to help students learn to better interact with one another on the heels of the coronavirus pandemic necessitating cohorting and isolation for the past two school years. During a Manistee Area Public Schools Board of Education meeting Wednesday, Joanie Wiersma, Kennedy Elementary School principal,…
July 28, 2022
A year of social and emotional learning ›
“You can’t do SEL, trauma, or equity work without each other,” Jennette Claassen, Head of Evaluation, Playworks. As Playworks continued to progress on our equity journey, we explored a critical question: what are the intersections between play, social and emotional learning, physical activity, and trauma? A working group focused on this question decided, among other…
Regional Partners
Contact Us
2200 Hunt Street, #434
Detroit, MI 48207
t: 313.636.1646
f: 313.432.2945
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.
