Riverside's Unique Partnership Reimagines Recess

 

At Riverside Elementary, recess has become much more than a break from classwork. Instead of running aimlessly on the playground to burn off energy, students are now connecting, collaborating, and learning important life skills—all through the power of play.

While the swings, soccer fields, and traditional play structures are still there, Riverside students of all ages can't get enough of games like “Grumps Island” and “Giants,” which are transforming the playground into a hub of creativity and community. Thanks to a unique partnership with Playworks, a company specializing in creating healthy, inclusive playgrounds, Riverside has reimagined recess for its 312 students to have more fun together as they gain self-confidence.

“It’s about creating opportunities for play while practicing important social-emotional skills like honesty, empathy, teamwork, and conflict resolution,” said Santina Sisson, Playworks’ Site Coordinator. “When everyone knows the rules, it helps prevent conflicts and creates an inclusive environment for all students.”

Each month, Sisson spends a week at Riverside, visiting classrooms to introduce a variety of new games and activities designed to engage students in active, cooperative play. She also works closely with paraeducators who help supervise the playground, training them to lead activities when she’s not on site. Even student leaders from 4th and 5th grade are also stepping up, learning to guide and mentor younger peers during recess.

The new approach is already making an impact. For first grader Ivy Turner-Helgerson, the playground has become a favorite part of the school day. “I really like the games, especially Grumps Island,” she said while happily describing a tag game where students try to avoid the "Grump" as they run across an area of the field. “The game where you play Rock, Paper, Scissors and then stand in a line is also one I love to play with my friends.”

Paraeducator Elizabeth Gutierrez has seen the benefits firsthand. “It’s been fun encouraging students to participate in the different games and activities,” she shared. “The guided play has been great for both the younger and older students, helping them bond and learn from each other.”

Riverside's current partnership with Playworks is contracted through special funds allocated to the school's annual budget, and will continue throughout the school year, ensuring that smiling students will continue playing fun cooperative games…and avoiding Grumps on the playground…for several months to come.