Return to Play: The Benefits of Play
BREAKOUT DESCRIPTION:
This interactive, games-based workshop explores the long-term benefits of play and lays the foundation for creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful active recess environment for youth. Participants will walk away with ready-to-use group management tools, as well as an understanding of how to select and leverage games that support the physical, social, and emotional development of youth during recess and in the classroom.
Participants will walk away with pointed access to Playworks' Social and Emotional Game Guide, as well as the Utah State Board of Education's Recess Guidelines.
RESOURCES:
PRESENTER:
amanda.jolley@playworks.org
ashley.engeler@playworks.org
Amanda Jolley just finished her 10th year with Playworks Utah. She began her journey with Playworks as an Americorp member. After completing 3 years of service through Americorp at Midvale Elementary she decided to continue sharing the power of play as a Site Coordinator. Over the next 2 years she worked with nine different schools in 3 different districts. Since then Amanda has worked with over thirty different schools across Utah and nearby states as she took on her new role as Partner Experience Manager. Amanda was drawn to Playworks as a way to get kids active and healthy, after a few days on the job she learned that there is more to the experience she has embarked on. She believes recess and play can unlock our kids’ superpowers. While working hard at making recess great, she also attended Utah Valley University Firefighter Recruit Academy and received an Associates Degree in Emergency Services. Amanda has continued her education and recently received her Paramedic certification. Along with staying busy with work and school Amanda also loves hiking, working out, sports and competing in Obstacle Course Racing.
Ashley joined Playworks Utah in 2013 as an Americorps Member with an extensive background in childcare and youth development programming. Her journey with the organization has curated a deep passion for educational equity and expanding platforms for community impact. She is honored to advocate playful program opportunities and pathways that allow Utah students to thrive. Originally from Santa Cruz, California, Ashley relocated to Salt Lake in 2007 to teach snowboarding and obtain her English degree from the University of Utah. When she isn’t busy running or exploring Utah’s bounty of outdoor features, she enjoys spending her free time writing, reading, and relaxing at home with her partner and their cat, Yoko.