Playworks Michigan

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

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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

A Well-Rounded Student


“Playworks gives students the opportunity to have fun in a productive way. It really helps our students become the kinds of collaborators and teammates that we want them to be.”

– Moira Thomas
Teacher at Academy of the Americas Elementary-Middle School

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.

Latest News


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,…

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…

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 skills. One of the best ways to foster this growth is by…

See all News ›

Regional Partners


  MEDC logoThe Sigmund and Sophie Rohlik Foundations

 

Contact Us


Durfee Innovation Society
Attn: Recess Room
2470 Collingwood Street
Detroit, MI 48206

t: 313.636.1646
f: 313.432.2945

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We help schools and youth programs create healthy play environments where every child can join in.  Contact us to find out more about Playworks Michigan.

Contact Us