Built to play.

Built by

play.

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The National Institute for Play (NIFPlay) champions play as a public health necessity across all ages.

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Years in Play Science

Play Histories Studied

0M+

People Reached

Science

We advance and champion the science of play. Play is biologically hard-wired into our brain, supporting cognitive, emotional, social, and physical health across the lifespan.

Practice

We translate research into actionable tools, empowering individuals and organizations to experience the transformative power of play.

Impact

We challenge the misconception that play is a waste of time, leading a movement where play is central to community thriving.

A trusted voice in the play science movement.

We'll reach 10 million people

with play by 2030.

Workplace play running and fun with office chair

Get Involved

Bring the science of play to your world.

From professional development to personal growth, we provide the tools and expertise to transform how you live, work, and lead.

Speaking.

Keynotes and workshops across industries, from childhood development and sports to high-performance leadership.

Products.

Research-backed tools that translate scientific insights into daily play habits and promote thriving.

Community.

A global network of passionate experts collaborating to make play a public health priority.

Knowledge Hub

Deepen your understanding of play.

Ready to learn more about play? Access our curated library of play research and digital resources, designed for you to learn complex science and practical wisdom from leaders in the field.

Dive into the Science of Play

Dive into founder Dr. Stuart Brown’s core frameworks on the biological roots and developmental impact of play. Explore Science

Explore the Resource Library

A hand-picked collection of external books, videos, and articles to broaden your perspective. Browse Library

Discover your Play Style

Take the assessment to discover your unique play profile and how it shapes your daily life. Take the Quiz

Everything we share is evidence-based, ensuring we deliver insights of the highest integrity.

Unlock Potential.

Play is the catalyst that transforms how we live, work, and learn.

Our Purpose.

Dedicated to fostering a more resilient and connected world through the science of play.

Testimonials

In their words

Fuel our mission

Help us reach 10M people by 2030.

Your support empowers us to scale the science and practice of play to the corners of the world that need it most. An investment in play is an investment in human flourishing.

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In a world facing many challenges, fostering play is not a luxury—it is a necessity. I support NIFPlay’s mission to ensure play is recognized as essential to our well-being throughout life.

Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE

Founder, Jane Goodall Institute

About Us

Meet our passionate play team.

Founded by Dr. Stuart Brown and now led by his granddaughter Mia Sundstrom, NIFPlay has a small by mighty interdisciplinary team of dedicated play experts.