Playworks Utah
Playworks helps kids stay active and build valuable social and emotional skills through play.
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.
Latest News
January 24, 2024
Indoor Recess Transition Plan ›
From snow and cold to rain, smog, and everything in between, weather can throw a wrench in your outdoor recess plans. When inclement weather strikes, transitioning to indoor play can…
December 18, 2023
Playworks recognized as a NYSS Champion ›
Playworks becomes an NYSS Champion Playworks is pleased to be recognized by the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services…
January 10, 2023
Understanding the Complex Simplicities of Play ›
Play is a behavior that is natural and has existed for thousands of years and across species. It combines a set of made-up rules or norms and a willingness to…
August 24, 2021
Playworks Founder Jill Vialet Publishes ‘Why Play Works’ ›
Play brings out the best in every kid. Over the course of 25 years since Jill Vialet founded Playworks, she and her colleagues, as well as researchers and play experts,…
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.
Support Play
Our accomplishments would not have been possible without our community of supporters like you! With your help we are able to develop resources for kids to play on the playground and at home, create workbooks to support educators, create more equitable communities through our Equity Statement, design digital content for teachers and students, partner with community organizations to develop social/emotional curriculum, and bring safe and healthy play every day to our kids.