{"id":3664,"date":"2026-03-06T12:17:44","date_gmt":"2026-03-06T17:17:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.playworks.org\/new-york-new-jersey\/?p=3664"},"modified":"2026-03-06T12:47:54","modified_gmt":"2026-03-06T17:47:54","slug":"winter-play-strategies-that-help-kids-thrive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.playworks.org\/new-york-new-jersey\/2026\/03\/06\/winter-play-strategies-that-help-kids-thrive\/","title":{"rendered":"Winter Play Strategies That Help Kids Thrive"},"content":{"rendered":"

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

A <\/span>2025 study<\/span><\/a> by the University of California, Berkeley, found that \u201cschools with Playworks programming had a statistically significant lower proportion of chronically absent students,\u201d and it\u2019s easy to see why:<\/span><\/p>\n

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As one principal at a Playworks school noted, \u201cPlayworks is about positive engagement and building relationships\u2026when we have the opportunity to play together, we\u2019re building a stronger school community. \u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Discover fresh ideas in our game library. Start playing today<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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 <\/span>CONNECT<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Junior Coaches & Youth Leadership<\/h3>\n

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\u2014and our results back that up:<\/span><\/p>\n