“Play” and Its Importance to Child Development

  1. Updates
  2. Junior Coaches
  3. Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA
  4. News
It’s no secret that the benefits of physical activity in children are abundant, and they go well beyond just increasing physical fitness and preventing obesity. Numerous studies demonstrate that participation in sports and other play creates long-term emotional and psychological advantages, helping put kids on a path to success off the playing field. However, the true value comes when children receive guidance and mentorship through facilitated programs. “Play” as we’re referring to it is just that– any type of physical activity where kids are not only exercising but are also receiving good coaching that teaches a variety of core values including safety, discipline, sportsmanship and respect, among other attributes.

For that reason, I am proud to announce that the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA is providing Playworks with a substantial grant to help it further pursue making inclusive, safe and healthy recess programs available in schools around the country. The work Playworks has done so far is nothing short of astounding in training and placing adult coaches in schools and mentoring Junior Coaches, and its programs and strategies for engaging kids truly maximize the benefits kids receive during recess.

We’re excited for Playworks to be part of the Laureus USA family and look forward to continuing our work together and bringing sport for good programs to kids around the country. And I’d like to congratulate Jill Vialet and the entire Playworks team for the great work in getting kids “playing.”

More Updates


Coaches leading students in game outdoors
Coaches leading students in game outdoors

February 11, 2025

Resourceful Play with Minimal Equipment ›

Imagine a rainy day when outdoor recess is canceled or a play area with no traditional play equipment in sight. Even in these moments, kids, with the help of adults,…

children playing indoors
children playing indoors

January 13, 2025

Making Any Space a Playspace ›

Play is essential to a child’s development, regardless of whether it happens on a bustling playground, in a quiet classroom, or even in a small hallway. While a traditional outdoor…

November 20, 2024

Building a Foundation for Change ›

Relationships are the foundation of building a shared future. Schools, as microcosms of our communities, are the perfect starting point for driving the systemic change we need. We can most…