Playworks Northern California

Playworks helps kids stay active and build valuable social and emotional skills through play.

Get Involved

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.

Learn more about our impact

group of students

Latest News


October 21, 2024

Why Kids Should Experience a Variety of Sports and Games ›

Childhood is a time of exploration, where kids can try new things, discover hidden talents, and develop critical life skills. One of the best ways to foster this growth is…

September 20, 2024

Adapting Play for Varying Abilities ›

A 5th grade student had Brittle Bone Disease, a rare condition where his bones are fragile and prone to fracture. In his four years at the elementary school, he had…

September 4, 2024

Playworks Northern California Receives $25,000 Foundation Grant from U.S. Bank ›

Oakland, CA – Playworks Northern California, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play, …

August 20, 2024

The Power of Norms ›

As students return back to school, setting norms becomes essential in easing the transition. Shared norms are important throughout the school day, from the classroom to the playground and even…

See all News ›

Upcoming Events


Please check back soon for upcoming events.

View all events ›

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


1423 Broadway
PMB 161
Oakland, CA 94612
T: 510.893.4180

Facebook logo   X logo   Instagram logo

Support Play

A little goes a long way. Help Playworks give children a good start.

Donate Now

group of students playing