Recess Reinvented: How Playworks is Building Skills in South Umpqua Schools

Recess is important. Students have opportunities to burn off energy while building social and emotional skills. To enhance these benefits, South Umpqua School District has partnered with Playworks. Playworks is a leading national nonprofit with a mission to improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play.

Thanks to an Innovation grant from The Ford Family Foundation awarded to South Umpqua School District, Playworks has already been introduced at Tri City Elementary School. The program will soon expand to Canyonville School and Myrtle Creek Elementary School.

Behavior Attendance Monitor, Mary Pettibone at Tri City Elementary championed the idea to bring Playworks to the district. “I wanted to introduce new games to students so all would be involved in active play,” she said.

Playworks Program Specialist, Cali Hodge spent four days at Tri City Elementary, bringing enthusiasm and activities to the school community, which included familiar games like tag and new ones. “Playworks partners with schools to support their staff who are embedded in their school communities,” she said.

Playworks Program Specialist, Cali Hodge spent four days at Tri City Elementary, bringing enthusiasm and activities to the school community, which included familiar games like tag and new ones. “Playworks partners with schools to support their staff who are embedded in their school communities,” she said.

Hodge also shared that Playworks works to ensure that games are accessible and inclusive, offering students the chance to quickly join the fun. Each game includes signs with visual descriptors and words, making it easier for students to understand the rules and participate.

A key component in Playworks incorporates junior coaches who are older students. This leadership opportunity not only gives these students a chance to teach younger peers but also helps build a sense of responsibility and community among all students. “This is an opportunity for student-led games and activities,” said Hodge, “I think it’s so meaningful for older students to have that as a leadership opportunity and for younger students to have a near-peer role model who they can relate to and look forward to seeing on the playground.”

Leo Lopez, a fifth grader, shared his experience as a junior coach. “We’re able to monitor kids while having fun.”

Another fifth grader, Hallee Anderson, expressed her excitement about being a part of the program: “I love helping kids learn a new game. I like to watch kids have fun and they just have a good time.”

Pettibone shared, “Junior coaches are taking responsibility for teaching game rules, introducing new games, and teaching students of all ages how to appropriately solve conflicts at recess. They will also be responsible for teaching new junior coaches.” She also said that staff have already reported less conflicts on the playground and more involvement from students who were reluctant to participate in activities.

Playworks also emphasizes the importance of helping students transition from high-energy play back to calm, focused learning. For example, after recess students might gather in a circle and practice taking slow deep breaths or saying a countdown together.

“By integrating Playworks into our elementary schools, we’re providing students with valuable opportunities to learn and grow together outside of the classroom,” said South Umpqua School District Superintendent Erika Bare, “This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to unlock the unlimited potential in every student.”

Recess is an essential part of the school day where students can play, make their own choices, and develop important social skills. Playworks creates a supportive environment where students can thrive through play and meaningful interactions with peers.

“I’m committed to continuing this program on recess,” Pettibone said. “I want to thank Playworks and Coach Cali for an informative, action-packed four days. Thank you also to The Ford Family Foundation for helping make this a reality.”

For more information about Playworks, visit www.playworks.org.