LENOX — Morris Elementary School students participated in a day of unstructured play as part of Global School Play Day on Feb. 7.
Global School Play Day — celebrated on the first Wednesday of February every year — is a day of unstructured, self-directed playtime. Students may explore their creativity, problem-solving skills, and social interactions in a spontaneous environment.
Morris Elementary School students engaged in a day with no screens, no structure, and no interference from staff in how they chose to play. Students brought in their favorite board games from home, built Lego sculptures, took part in a Playful Engineers activity, played lawn games, and did arts and crafts.
Participating in Global School Play Day helps to foster various skills including:
- Problem-solving
- Negotiation
- Practicing empathy
- Developing creativity and innovation
Play also helps to boost feelings of joy and promotes relationship building among students.
Morris’ day of play was organized by Lead Teacher Pam Codey and Principal Kelley.
“It has been scientifically proven that when young students engage in play, their performance in school improves,” said Principal Kelley. “Not only does unstructured play have great benefits, but the students love it. It was wonderful to see the smiles on every face in our school.”
Students play their favorite board games they brought from home, and lawn games as part of Morris Elementary School’s participation in Global School Play Day. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools) 
Students play with Legos during Global School Play Day. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools) 
Margaret Singer, Kindergarten, displays her Lego sculpture during Global School Play Day. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools) 
Ryan Miskinis and Gavin Mlynarski, Grade 3, participate in a Physical Engineering activity. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools) 
Bradley McCormack and Iriana Arana Gomez, Grade 3, participate in a Physical Engineering activity. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools) 
Jack Higgins, Grade 1, does arts and crafts during Global School Play Day. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools)
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