Executive Director, SEASPAR 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?

“Play is essential to the human development process”

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 Programs for specific populations Gardening Special events and trips Overnights Drop-In Centers Stroke Clubs Adult Day Programs Summer Day Camp Social Clubs Swim lessons Bowling Arts Music Drama Pet Therapy

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 Thank you for attending today’s session! Make an active leisure lifestyle a priority for yourself and your family.