Playworks New England
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
NBC10 WJAR
June 22, 2022
Recess Rocks in Rhode Island champions named ›
Recess Rocks in Rhode Island champions have been named! Read more about Playworks New England’s programming in Rhode Island and the recess rockstars who help make it happen.
June 22, 2022
Playworks AmeriCorps Coaches’ end of year reflections ›
Being an AmeriCorps Coach at Playworks is no small feat. Throughout the year, you are asked to complete 1,700 hours of service. Weekend service projects are common, you recruit and coach students for a basketball extravaganza, and you’re encouraged to spend a lot of time reflecting on why you chose to do a year of…
June 10, 2022
Celebrating Junior Coaches at our first ever graduation ceremony ›
On Saturday, June 4th students and families from all over Boston, Lawrence, and New Bedford gathered in celebration of the first ever Junior Coach Graduation; a day of recognition to honor over 160 Playworks New England Junior Coaches and all of their accomplishments in the 2021-2022 school year. For the students of Elwyn G. Campbell…
June 6, 2022
What is a Peace Path and how do I use it in my school? ›
Conflict is a natural part of recess (and of life). Who’s out in the game of Four Square? Which team gets to start with the ball? There are game conflicts, conflicts over the recess rules, and personal conflicts. Especially with multiple classrooms at recess together and students playing with people they might not have played…
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.
Contact Us
Playworks New England
1452 Dorchester Avenue, 4th floor
Dorchester MA 02122
t: 617.708.1734
f: 617.849.5791
Support Play
Playworks New England is grateful for the support of our regional movement partners.
A little goes a long way. Help Playworks give children a good start.
