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Family Engagement in Recreational Activities for Individuals with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders. ILCCBD 2011 Conference Lisle, Illinois Presented by Susan B. Friend Executive Director, SEASPAR. Recreation is….
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Family Engagement in Recreational Activities for Individuals with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders ILCCBD 2011 Conference Lisle, Illinois Presented by Susan 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 up • What times or special occasions do you remember the most? • Where did you learn? • From whom did you learn? • How did you learn?
What is a special recreation association? • Only in Illinois • A 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 authority • Pooling of populations • Pooling of funding
Typical Recreation Programs • Summer Day Camp • Social Clubs • Swim lessons • Bowling • Arts • Music • Drama • Pet Therapy • Programs for specific populations • Gardening • Special events and trips • Overnights • Drop-In Centers • Stroke Clubs • Adult Day Programs
What are the benefits? Structured environment Independence! Social development Independent living skills Emotional development Individualized instruction Small group activities Academic skills increase Consistent expectations Learning is fun in a “real” environment!
Program benefits Program Examples Individual Benefits • Drama • Cooking • Social clubs • Sports • Trips • Art • Swimming • Horseback riding • Pet therapy • Day camp • 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 normalcy Social network for families Support system Meeting other advocates for your child Long-lasting relationships with recreation provider Positive focus for all family Involved with child and the community You learn more about your child ! Build relationships that help everyone in the family
Examples of family engagement • Music recitals • Cooking class – family night • Dance recitals • Large family events • Celebration banquets • Sports fans • HS sports crossover • Siblings work as part-time staff and volunteers • Walk and Roll A Thon • Parent Workshops • Hot Air Balloon Rides
Family Action & Advocacy • Recognize recreational opportunities for the family • Recognize the value and potential in recreation • Share your needs with those who can assist • Be objective and honest about needs and expectations • Decide when siblings should be together and apart • Advocate wherever you go, to whomever will listen
Stories showing the power of recreation • Jason C. • Michele • Jason G. • Breeze x2
Finding special recreation services • Web www.specialrecreation.com • Parent testimonials • Information for community leaders • “Find my services” • Videos • Teacher information • Students pursing a career in therapeutic recreation
Linking services • When you can connect with a special recreation provider: • Include them in IEP meetings • Use them for family support • Work on transition plans • Provide program input • Share your insights
Resources where there are no SRAs • County 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! • YMCAs • City recreation departments
Thank you for attending today’s session!Make an active leisure lifestyle a priority for yourself and your family.