AIR Case Study: Playworks and the Science of Learning and Development

  1. Updates

Playworks is bringing the science of learning & development to life through the power of play.

All young people have the ability to become their best selves when provided the right experiences, context, and relationships. Play has the power to create those parameters. The American Institutes for Research shared a case study about how Playworks is leveraging the power of play to support whole child development.

The Science of Learning and Development is a cross-disciplinary body of knowledge that describes how people learn and develop. It also provides many powerful lessons that can transform education systems, advance equity, and help every young person thrive.

Learn more in the video above, or read the full case study in the link below.

Read the case study

More Updates


students jump-roping
students jump-roping

May 31, 2023

The Significance of Play in Children’s Mental Health ›

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re exploring research around this topic and how play (and Playworks) can make a difference. The urgent need to support children’s mental health  The pandemic increased the loneliness and isolation that people, especially children, were feeling. As children re-entered school buildings, people quickly realized that academic recovery from…

students hula hooping
students hula hooping

May 30, 2023

Playworks Alumni Spotlight: Alison Vaux-Bjerke ›

In this Q&A, former Coach Alison Vaux-Bjerke reflects on her Playworks experience and her journey into a career in youth sports and health initiatives. Q: What position did you hold at Playworks, where, and for how long? A: I was an AmeriCorps Program Coordinator for one year (2011-12) and a Program Associate for two years…

group of adults
group of adults

May 25, 2023

National Board of Directors visit to Playworks School ›

During the May 2023 National Board of Directors meeting in Oakland, CA, the board gathered to strategize, plan, and experience the power of play firsthand. Board members and Playworks teammates visited a local community school where they met with Coach Christina and her Junior Coaches, learned about the school’s partnership with Playworks, and jumped into…