Fun Websites

American Journal of Play—An interdisciplinary publication of The Strong National Museum of Play that shares current and emerging research on the importance of play in human development and learning throughout the lifecycle.

A Playful PathA free downloadable e-book and blog by games guru and fun theorist Bernard De Koven that serves as a collection of ideas and tools to help bring playfulness back into the open.

Colossal—An amazing blog that highlights the colossal nature of human creativity at the crossroads of art, science, culture, and the natural world. A great source for weekly inspiration and innovative thinking.

Deep Fun—Fun theorist, games developer, author and “Shaman of Play” Bernard De Koven’s treasure trove of cooperative games, fun websites, ideas, projects, organizations that celebrate life because “when the fun gets deep enough, it can heal the world.”

Fulfillment Daily—Daily science-backed news for a happier life. Founded by Emma Seppala, PhD, Associate Director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Greater Good Science Center—Based out of University of California, Berkeley, GCSC studies the science and practices that support well-being and happiness. GCSC’s website offers a free online online course on happiness as well as numerous articles and studies.

Kidsplaybook—A wonderful repository of outdoor street games from around the world, searchable by country and type of game, which explores play similarities and differences across cultures.

National Institute for Play—A non-profit organization founded by play researcher Stuart Brown, MD, that is committed to bringing the unrealized scientific knowledge, practices and transformative benefits of play into public life.

National Museum of Play—The Strong National Museum of Play, located in Rochester NY, is the first collections-based museum in the world devoted solely to the role of play in learning and human development and the ways in which play illuminates cultural history.

Natural High—This website encourages youth to say “yes” to natural highs and no to artificial ones like drugs and alcohol. Youth, parents and educators can share their own favorite natural highs and explore celebrity videos, self assessments and free substance abuse prevention curricula.

Play for Peace—A global initiative and training programs that bring together children, youth and organizations from communities in conflict using cooperative, inclusive play to promote conflict resolution and peace.

Spolin Games—Improvisational theater games used by Chicago’s famous Second City and other improvisational theater troups around the world. A great resource for ice breakers, team building, and creative social games.

World Laughter Tour—Laughter therapy training, resources and local clubs that promote health, happiness and peace by encouraging everyone to tap into the positive benefits of laughter and humor, which are natural pathways mental and physical health.

Cover photo: Bounce Out by Amanda Tipton | CC BY-NC 2.0