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.