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.
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
May 15, 2023
Let’s Create a Brighter Future Through Play ›
I am so thrilled to continue my journey with the Playworks Michigan team after joining as Executive Director in November 2022. After only a few months I have had the opportunity to experience firsthand the outstanding passion of Playworks Coaches, Site Coordinators, program staff, board, and volunteers, who are the heart of this organization. Through…
CBS Detroit
May 2, 2023
Detroit Pistons host girls basketball jamboree ›
Hundreds of elementary students from across the state were in Detroit Sunday for a Playworks girls basketball jamboree. Elementary school students from Detroit, Metro Detroit and all the way from Kalamazoo stopped in at the Detroit Pistons Performance Center for some hoops, stretching, dribbling and other events.
Press & Guide
February 7, 2023
Playworks hosts 200 area students at Lions training facility ›
The Detroit Lions Foundation and Playworks teamed up to host hundreds of area students at the Lions training facility for a game of fun. The “Jamboree” that brings together students from Playworks leagues around metro Detroit saw more than 200 students team up to play football at the facility in Allen Park.
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 explore. Researchers, scientists, and doctors have studied the effects of play on kids–and adults–and understand that this natural behavior has tremendous benefits. As the American…
Regional Partners
Contact Us
2200 Hunt Street, #434
Detroit, MI 48207
t: 313.636.1646
f: 313.432.2945
Get in Touch
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.
