CCC&TI introduces course designed to help adults reconnect through intentional play

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, in partnership with local experiential development company PlayWorks, is offering a new continuing education course designed to help adults reduce stress, reconnect with creativity, improve communication, and rediscover energy through intentional play.

“The Play Method” will introduce participants to the science, psychology, and practical applications of play as a tool for personal growth and development. The four-week interactive course is based on the PlayWorks PLAY Method and focuses on four pillars: Physical Freedom, Lightness and Laughter, Authentic Expression, and YES Energy.

The course begins with an optional one-day introductory session, “Introduction to PLAY,” on Sept. 29. This session will provide an overview of the PLAY Method and give participants an opportunity to experience the approach before committing to the full four-week course.

The full four-week course, offered Oct. 13 through Nov. 3, will explore one of the PLAY pillars each week.

During the first week, participants will explore why play matters for adults; the relationship between stress, burnout, and disconnection; and the Four Pillars of PLAY. Participants also will complete a “Wheel of Play” exercise to identify areas where they may benefit from greater restoration, curiosity, and creativity.

The second week will focus on Physical Movement and YES Energy. Participants will explore the connections between movement, emotions, and cognition while also learning how playful movement can help interrupt patterns of stress and mental fatigue. The session will emphasize movement based on individual abilities rather than performance.

The third week will explore Lightness and Laughter and YES Energy. Participants will examine the emotional impact of play, perfectionism, and fear of judgment, as well as the role of humor and shared laughter in building resilience and human connection.

The final week will focus on Authentic Expression and YES Energy. Participants will explore ways to reconnect with personal creativity, practice self-expression without the pressure of perfection, and use experimentation and action to build momentum.

By the end of the four-week course, participants will have explored practical ways to incorporate play into their lives and develop habits that support creativity, connection, and a more joyful mindset.

“Introduction to PLAY” will be held from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, on CCC&TI’s Caldwell Campus in Room E-120. The cost for the introductory session is $40.

The full four-week course “The Play Method” will be held from 5-9 p.m. each Tuesday from Oct. 13 through Nov. 3 on the Caldwell Campus in Room E-120. The cost for the full four-week course is $120.

For more information or to register, visit cccti.edu/play-method or call 828-726- 2242.

— JM