Dear John,

We want all children to succeed. That includes students’ academic achievement. Of course, learning happens in engaging, high quality classrooms. But it also happens on the playground, in group activities, and during moments of challenge and cooperation. When students build skills like teamwork, cooperation, and critical thinking, they’re not just becoming better classmates - they’re becoming stronger learners.

The best way for kids to learn these skills is through PLAY. Play is fun AND is a natural way kids develop the skills needed for academic success.

Play and games require students to follow rules, solve problems, and collaborate with peers. The same skills needed to be successful in the classroom.

Take the game All Tangled Up. In a circle, students reach across with both hands and grab the hands of different students so that group is in a messy knot. Then the students must use verbal communication, cooperation, strategic thinking, and problem solving to work together to untangle themselves all while holding hands.

Thanks to supporters like you, kids are getting the play they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond. In fact, 94% of educators at Playworks schools agree that our programming helps students develop the skills to succeed in their learning community.

Learn more: how play and Playworks help kids thrive in the classroom.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Cushing
CEO
Playworks