Jim Rollins Elementary School of Innovation – Play Matters Campaign
Play is key to development because it supports the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth.
According to the Voice of Play research shows that outdoor free play benefits the development of physical, emotional, social and cognitive skills. Going outside for recess, even for just 30 minutes a day, supports these different kinds of child development.
Physical – This type of development from free play is highly important. Running, climbing, jumping and crawling are all ways for children to stay healthy, fit and active. They are also refining their reflexes, motor skills, flexibility and more. Simply taking the time to play can improve heart and lung function and prevent obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol.
Emotional – Children are able to express themselves in numerous ways out on the playground. They are able to build confidence and self-esteem by experimenting with their skills, taking risks, using their imaginations and adapting to different environments. Research has also shown that it is a way for children to release emotions after a traumatic event or (ACES) Adverse Childhood Experiences.
Social – Children need a healthy balance of spending time with parents, family members and other adults, as well as their peers. Recess allows children to meet new friends and build relationships while learning how to communicate and cooperate with others. Expanding their social horizons on the playground leads to understanding social norms and different cultures that surround them.
Cognitive – So many parts of the playground these days are based on stimulating a child’s brain development. Recess helps children develop relationship and reasoning skills, encourages autonomous thinking and problem solving as well as helps improve their ability to focus and control their behavior. Not only are children releasing their extra energy from being in the classroom, but they are also putting those skills they learned to use – without even knowing it! Research has proven that children are more alert and have a greater attention span to academic tasks after enjoying some free play.
Exercise lights up the brain cells and children return to the classroom ready to learn.
Sponsorship Levels
- Play Friends – Any Amount
- Play Advocates: $1,000 – $9,999
- Play Investors: $10,000 – $19,999 (gift includes logo on signage)
- Play Champions: $20,000 and above (gift includes logo on the signage and participation in the ribbon cutting ceremonies)
Mail checks payable to Springdale Public Schools Education Foundation 800 E. Emma Ave., Suite 327 Springdale AR 72764
OR
You can make your gift with a credit card by using our online giving with just a few clicks:
PayPal gifts:
Please add Play Matters name in the “Note” section as you process your Paypal gift.
Please direct all inquiries and questions to:
Shawna Lyons, Ed.D.
Springdale Public Schools,
Grant Coordinator
479-750-8707