The well-being of our communities starts with the well-being of our kids – and play is critical to their ability to thrive. But Red Rover, fort building, dress up, and kickball are increasingly becoming a thing of the past as many forces conspire to make it more difficult for children to get the balance of active play they need.
Today, we see a healthy balance of play falling victim to TV, video games, structured schedules, declining recess time, and a lack of access to safe play spaces.
In this section, we'll explore the benefits of play for kids, as well as the harms that affect communities when kids don't have access to play.
Select an icon below to learn more on each topic
Active and balanced play
Active minds, active bodies, and active together — how these components of play can benefit kids' development.
Disappearance of play
Exploring the studies that reflect that today's kids are playing less than any previous generation.
21st century skills and education
Play enhances critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration— all three are integral skills for the healthy adults and workforce of the future.
Toxic stress and caring adults
For kids living in poverty, chronic, toxic stress is a barrier to healthy development. Play with caring adults can help prevent toxic stress.
Behavioral barriers to play
Rigamajig® + STEM learning
New research providing data describing the engineering-related, physical and social play behaviors kids display in a play environment utilizing Rigamajig®.
Publications
Published reports detailing the impact of our work for kids and in communities.