Stories of Play
November 8, 2018
Helping Students Uncover their Leadership Potential ›
When I showed my principal the list of students accepted to our school’s Junior Coach program this year, she gasped. One fifth grade name in particular stood out to her.…
November 7, 2018
Bringing Out the Kindness from Within ›
When I first arrived at my school as the new Playworks Coach, I found that many students came to school tired and cranky, and were quick to fight, swear, cheat,…
November 6, 2018
Empowering Kids to be Courageous ›
Eric is a kindergarten student who rarely chose to play at recess. He was pleasant and talkative with teachers and recess staff, but was hesitant to interact with classmates. One…
August 13, 2018
Student Plays at Recess for the First Time ›
This story comes from Laura Diedrich, an educator in Littleton, CO upon completing Playworks Pro and implementing new games and activities at recess. Sean is an amazing first grader at…
March 11, 2018
The Changing Playground ›
It is raining outside, as it usually is in Oregon. Ella, a fifth grader, sits by herself against the wall at recess. She refuses to make eye contact with any…
March 9, 2018
AmeriCorps Coach Inspires Youth Leaders ›
Our Playworks AmeriCorps coaches make a positive impact every day at each of the schools we serve in Southern California. Coaches transform schools, engage communities, and inspire youth leaders. During…
March 9, 2018
Getting Things Done in the Motor City! ›
Our AmeriCorps members are the shining light of the programming here in Michigan! They hold the very rewarding, and sometimes challenging position of being the day-to-day faces of our overall…
February 20, 2018
Alumni Spotlight: Catherine Herzog ›
Current Role: Senior Manager of Experiences at IfOnly Who is Catherine Herzog? I’m a native to Southern California and have chased sunshine and adventure since I was a kid. I…
January 12, 2018
Making teaching playful ›
For former Playworks coach turned second-grade teacher Dana Lovecchio, play doesn’t just enhance learning, it’s central to her teaching approach. “I like to think that everything I need to know…