Workplace Culture and Playfulness

Sometimes life can become more about surviving than thriving, and in this training, we take a closer look at the role that play has in managing stress and challenges. As a group, we will explore brain science connected to the value of adults using play as a tool at work and home. The fact that play promotes brain organization and can help people rebound from disappointments is critical during the demands of our current world circumstances. The session is based on research by Dr. Stuart Brown, the founder of the National Institute for Play.

“Know” Knowledge & Understanding

• Explore the neuroscience of playfulness to identify the indispensable role it has on the well-being of humans.
• Recognize the benefits of play for adults, such as improved brain organization, shared humanity, motivation, and resilience, and understand why play and fear can coexist.
• Identify how humour and positive connection contribute to psychological safety, belonging, and a healthier workplace culture.

“Do” Apply Skills & Practice

• Engage with practical tools for integrating play into daily work, including small rituals, creative reflection, imaginative games, and reward ideas that fit their context.
• Share ideas and practices of playfulness in your current work environment and develop new ideas to invite more playfulness into your workplace.

“Be” Professional Growth & Transformation

• Engage in playfulness every day and embrace a stance of curiosity and creativity.
• Find opportunities to use stories, joy, and small moments of play to heal stress and strengthen relationships at work.
• Leave the session as culture-builders who intentionally balance focus and fun to support collective mental health and performance
• Provide flexibility and hold space for playfulness within team interactions.