Family Engagement in Recreational Activities for Individuals with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
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Transcript of Family Engagement in Recreational Activities for Individuals with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
Family Engagement in Recreational Activities for Individuals with
Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
ILCCBD 2011 ConferenceLisle, Illinois
Presented bySusan B. Friend
Executive Director, SEASPAR
Recreation is…
…the expenditure of time in a manner designed for therapeutic refreshment of one’s
mind and body.
Think about growing upWhat times or special occasions do you
remember the most?
Where did you learn?
From whom did you learn?
How did you learn?
“Play is essential to the human development process”
What is a special recreation association?
Only in IllinoisA special recreation cooperative is formed by 2 or more park
districts/villages who join together to provide recreation programs for their residents with disabilities.
There are 28 special recreation cooperatives that serve 193 Illinois communities.
Why does the model work so well?Special legislation and taxing authorityPooling of populationsPooling of funding
Typical Recreation Programs Summer Day CampSocial ClubsSwim lessonsBowlingArtsMusicDramaPet Therapy
Programs for specific populations
GardeningSpecial events and
tripsOvernightsDrop-In CentersStroke ClubsAdult Day Programs
What are the benefits?
Structured environmentIndependence!
Social developmentIndependent living skillsEmotional developmentIndividualized instruction
Small group activitiesAcademic skills increaseConsistent expectations
Learning is fun in a “real” environment!
Program benefitsProgram Examples
DramaCookingSocial clubsSportsTripsArtSwimmingHorseback ridingPet therapyDay camp
Individual Benefits Expression Following instructions Friends Following rules Exercise/use of energy Control Acceptance Belonging Self-esteem Accomplishment Learning social skills in real
settings Making good choices
Family Benefits•Personal space•Independence
Feeling of normalcySocial network for families
Support systemMeeting other advocates for your child
Long-lasting relationships with recreation providerPositive focus for all family
Involved with child and the communityYou learn more about your child !
Build relationships that help everyone in the family
Examples of family engagement
Music recitalsCooking class –
family nightDance recitalsLarge family eventsCelebration
banquetsSports fansHS sports crossover
Siblings work as part-time staff and volunteers
Walk and Roll A ThonParent WorkshopsHot Air Balloon Rides
Family Action & AdvocacyRecognize recreational opportunities for the
family Recognize the value and potential in recreationShare your needs with those who can assistBe objective and honest about needs and
expectationsDecide when siblings should be together and
apartAdvocate wherever you go, to whomever will
listen
Stories showing the power of recreation
Jason C.
Michele
Jason G.
Breeze x2
Finding special recreation servicesWeb www.specialrecreation.comParent testimonialsInformation for community leaders“Find my services”VideosTeacher informationStudents pursing a career in therapeutic
recreation
Linking servicesWhen you can connect with a special
recreation provider:
Include them in IEP meetingsUse them for family supportWork on transition plansProvide program inputShare your insights
Resources where there are no SRAsCounty Associations for
People w/Disabilities
Camps
Organizations who operate workshops
Colleges and Universities
Sibshops
Service Clubs – Kiwanis Aktion Clubs
Inclusive Services – anywhere – ADA
Be an advocate for special recreation!
YMCAsCity recreation
departments
Thank you for attending today’s session!
Make an active leisure lifestyle a priority for yourself and your family.