Inequities touch every corner of our society, affecting both adults and kids, with consequences that are often long-lasting. For positive change to occur, we must understand each other and work together toward a more equitable society.
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 effectively build strong, lasting relationships in schools by leveraging something everyone enjoys: play.
Playing together is one of the ways we create strong connections with other people – at all ages. It is an effective way to build a more fair future for everyone. When we play, we are connecting, collaborating, cooperating, communicating, and solving problems.
And yet, even in schools there are barriers that prevent some kids and adults from building positive relationships through play. For example:
Kids with differing abilities might not be included on the playground. Oftentimes school staff haven’t been equipped with the training, knowledge, or supporting resources to be able to address all of the needs of the individual students’ physical and cognitive skills to safely engage them in play. With training and resources on how to modify games and activities to keep kids safe and engaged, we can make sure everyone is included in the game.
Resource: Adapting Play for Varying Abilities blog
Language barriers can prevent communication, but when kids play together they’ll often model the behaviors to cheer each other on. A smile or high-five on the playground can make all of the difference to start forming meaningful connections.
Resource: Play at Home playbook in 7 languages
Kids with adverse childhood experiences are experiencing higher levels of stress, and as a result, their brains might be dysregulated and behavior issues may occur. Clear game rules, norms, and expectations–and the act of playing itself–can help with re-regulating the brain. Play can act as a protective factor to support mental well-being.
Resource: Supporting Student Mental Health Through Play
School staff have so many competing priorities and there is often turnover, but kids need to build trusting relationships. It is important for kids to have caring and consistent adults in their corner, both for their personal and academic development. In order for school staff to support students and model positive behaviors, they need to feel supported themselves. When school staff engage in play, they are building connections with the students and each other while also feeling joy from the act of playing itself.
Resource: Kaiser Permanente Supporting Teacher and Staff Wellbeing tip sheet
Chronic absenteeism puts a strain on relationships between kids and adults. By making school an inclusive, fun place that kids want to attend, they’re more likely to show up and have a higher academic motivation. Playing together and feeling included in games can make students feel supported in the school environment.
Resource: Attendance Works Facebook post
Play has an important role in every school.
Although play experiences can look and feel different from one school to another, they all have benefits. These six simple Principles of Play are a great starting point to help ensure that the play experience is positive and inviting.
One day, every kid in America will benefit from playing every day–and every adult too. Schools are one critical part of children’s lives, and a great place to spark change. Join Playworks in not just imagining a world in which positive play experiences are happening at every school, but also in making that vision a reality in support of more equitable experiences for all.
