Year after year, we see how physically active, inviting play excites students, improves attendance, and supports stronger academic outcomes. At the heart of Playworks mission since 1996, this practice is tested every winter across New York and New Jersey. Consistent opportunities for play can often diminish due to bad weather, but fortunately, there are so many amazing games and activities to keep kids active to support their physical and mental well-being.
A 2025 study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that “schools with Playworks programming had a statistically significant lower proportion of chronically absent students,” and it’s easy to see why:
As one principal at a Playworks school noted, “Playworks is about positive engagement and building relationships…when we have the opportunity to play together, we’re building a stronger school community. ”
Discover fresh ideas in our game library. Start playing today
This winter, use play to strengthen relationships and help kids thrive: brain breaks and minute movers release energy and aid in processing; readiness games build listening skills and reduce conflict; supportive spaces foster a sense of belonging. Discover how Playworks can support your school this season by setting up a time to CONNECT.
Junior Coaches & Youth Leadership
Playworks Junior Coach Leadership Program has prepared thousands of elementary students to take the lead and support their peers. We believe play is one of the most powerful ways for students to practice critical life and leadership skills that support success in school, at home, and eventually in the workplace—and our results back that up:
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84% of Junior Coaches report an increased desire to learn
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85% report an increased incentive to succeed in school
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80% report positive and supportive social connections with friends and classmates
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81% report increased engagement in hands-on and physical activities
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95% of Junior Coaches report increased social awareness competencies
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98% report increased self-management competencies
Through direct service partnerships, students apply, interview with coaches, and participate in ongoing training to maximize their impact on the playground. Schools and organizations can also partner with Playworks to launch their own Youth Leadership Program, supported by experienced Playworks staff and our digital platform, SparkPlay.
Spotlight: BPS CCI Cohort Youth Employment Readiness
With the generous support of the Buffalo Sabres Foundation, Playworks New York/New Jersey has implemented an Employment Readiness training series for students enrolled in the Buffalo Public Schools’ Collegiate Career Institute (CCI). Buffalo’s CCI program engages students aged 17-21 who are pursuing their high school equivalency, along with career and technical skills. Over the course of four sessions, this cohort is practicing real-world soft skills, including communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and conflict resolution through team-building activities, playful challenges, debriefs, and reflection prompts. Participating students will receive certificates of completion recognizing their hard work and improved prospects for career success as they take their next steps. (navigating spaces)
Game Highlight
With winter weather in full force, creative indoor play is essential. Shipwreck—a Playworks classic—keeps large groups moving and engaged in almost any space. It’s perfect for mixed grades and abilities, with scaffolded play and flexible roles to keep kids engaged. As a readiness game, it primes kids and adults to practice active listening, react to commands and cues, and then transition into a grouping activity—each command requires interacting with a different number of people.
