Therapeutic Recreation

What is Therapeutic Recreation?
Therapeutic Recreation is the planning and implementation of goal-based leisure and recreation activities for individuals with disabilities. Therapeutic Recreation is an evidence-based practice that follows the APIED process: Assessment, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation, and Documentation. 

Therapeutic Recreation Department Mission:
The Therapeutic Recreation Department is committed to providing inclusive, accessible, and meaningful recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Therapeutic Recreation services are designed to support participation in recreation and leisure while promoting access, inclusion, and community engagement.

Goals:

  • Increase independence over time
  • Develop recreation and leisure skills
  • Promote social connection and community participation
  • Build confidence and self-advocacy skills
  • Increase access to meaningful recreation opportunities

Inclusion Support

What is Inclusion Support?
Inclusion support is the implementation of individualized support strategies and accommodations that promote successful and meaningful participation in Watertown recreation programs. Support may include activity modifications, communication tools, sensory supports, visual schedules, behavioral strategies, or other accommodations based on a participant's needs. 

Who is Inclusion Support for?
Inclusion support may be requested for any participant who requires accommodations, modifications, or individualized support to successfully participate in a recreation program due to a disability or support need. 

How to Request Inclusion Support:

  1. Please register for the program of your choice BEFORE requesting inclusion support.
  2. After you have registered for a program, fill out this brief form to request inclusion support: https://form.jotform.com/262086066031047 
  3. After completing the form, Eva Burbidge, CTRS, will reach out with next steps. Next steps include an Intake Packet and a scheduled phone meeting to discuss inclusion support.
  4. Inclusion support requests must be submitted at least 10 business days prior to the program start date to allow time for the intake process and planning and implementation of appropriate supports.


Models of Inclusion Support

Built-In Program Supports

  • Supports built into programs to promote successful participation. 
    • Access to sensory tools or quiet spaces
    • Clear and simple instructions
    • Built-in breaks
    • Visual timers/transition warnings
    • Communication with the director regarding specific participant needs
    • Individualized social, emotional, and behavioral support strategies

Group or 1:1 Inclusion Aide

  • An Inclusion Aide supports multiple participants or works 1:1 with a participant during programming. 
  • The need for inclusion supports, including additional staffing, is determined through an intake assessment by the Recreation Therapist. Group support and 1:1 support is not guaranteed and is provided based on the participant's assessed needs, program requirements, and staff availability.

Current Therapeutic Recreation Programs

Belmont/Watertown S.P.O.R.T: The Belmont/Watertown S.P.O.R.T program is a year-round adaptive recreation program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants enjoy a variety of Special Olympics and recreational sports, along with weekly social opportunities that promote friendship, community involvement, healthy lifestyles, and skill development through fun and meaningful activities. 

Next Adventure: Next Adventure is a goal-based social and recreation program for teens and young adults with disabilities. Led by Eva Burbidge, CTRS, participants build social skills, increase independence, and develop meaningful connections while taking part in a variety of community-based recreational activities. 

After registering for one or more Next Adventure programs, the participant's parent or guardian will receive an intake packet by email. Completion of all required intake forms and the intake process is required before participating in any Next Adventure program. The information collected is vital to understanding each participant's individual support needs and providing the appropriate accommodations and supports for a successful experience. This program is a partnership between Belmont and Watertown Recreation Departments.

And more!

Volunteering
The Belmont/Watertown SPORT program relies heavily on volunteers. Interested in volunteering? Please fill out this form to indicate your interest: New Volunteer Interest Form 
After filling out the form, Eva Burbidge, CTRS, will reach out with next steps.

Questions?
Contact Eva Burbidge, CTRS
Email: eburbidge@watertown-ma.gov
Phone: 617-993-2772