Activating Empathy Through Play - Silicon Valley

Thanks to your support we were able to provide inspiring coaches to 27 schools in Silicon Valley this school year! Meet Playworks Coach Jeff from George Mayne Elementary School. He's been bringing play to Santa Clara schools for over a year. We interviewed Coach Jeff in order to find out what motivates him to come to school every day and to understand the changes the Playworks program has made at George Mayne. 

What’s your favorite thing about being a coach?

Besides teaching children about healthy play and respecting the game, what I love most is that I get to build relationships with every child at school. I get to know them more than just as a student, but as who they are. I learn about what they like, what they don’t like, how they play, how they react when put in tough situations, etc. I don’t see myself just as their Playworks coach, but as a role model and friend that they can turn to whenever they need help.

What inspired you to become a Playworks coach?

Since high school I’ve worked with kids, ranging from kindergarten to middle school. From my experiences, I’ve learned that working with kids is both awesome and rewarding. So when I heard about Playworks, I knew it was something I had to get involved in.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen at your school because of Playworks?

More kids are getting involved and playing games. Hearing from teachers, before Playworks was at George Mayne, students were seen just walking around the playground and not really getting involved. Now, kids can’t wait to get out to recess and play not just with their peers, but younger students as well. At almost every game on our playground, there is a group of children from different grades cheering each other on, giving high fives, and respecting the game.

Imagine if there were a Coach Jeff at every school in Silicon Valley! Your support is allowing us to expand to even more schools next year! Thank you.