Therapeutic Recreation Month: More Than Play, It’s Possibility

Therapeutic Recreation Month is a time to celebrate the power of play, movement, and meaningful connection — and the incredible professionals who make it all possible.

At CP Alberta, therapeutic recreation is about so much more than activities. It’s about creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to build confidence, develop skills, and experience joy in ways that are meaningful to them.

What Is Therapeutic Recreation?

Therapeutic recreation uses purposeful activities to support physical, social, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Programs are designed with intention, accessibility, and inclusion at their core — meeting participants where they are and helping them explore what is possible.

Whether it’s splashing in the pool, bonding with a pony, learning new dance moves, or building strength and confidence in a gym setting, therapeutic recreation supports personal growth while fostering a sense of belonging.

Why It Matters

For many individuals with disabilities, barriers can limit access to recreation and leisure opportunities. Therapeutic recreation helps remove those barriers.

Through adapted programs, participants can:

• Build strength, coordination, and mobility

• Develop social skills and friendships

• Increase confidence and independence

• Reduce stress and support mental well-being

• Experience the joy of movement and self-expression

And just as importantly, participants get to be part of a community where they are welcomed, supported, and celebrated for who they are.

Celebrating Our Therapeutic Recreation Professionals

This month is also about recognizing the passionate therapeutic recreation professionals and program staff who bring these experiences to life.

Their creativity, empathy, and dedication ensure programs are not only safe and accessible, but also fun, empowering, and participant-led. They adapt activities, celebrate milestones (big and small), and create spaces where everyone feels they belong.

We are so grateful for the impact they have — not just during Therapeutic Recreation Month, but every single day.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Therapeutic Recreation Month, we’re reminded that recreation is not a luxury — it’s a vital part of health, inclusion, and quality of life.

Thank you to our staff, volunteers, families, donors, and community partners who help make therapeutic recreation possible. Together, we are creating spaces where movement builds confidence, play sparks connection, and everyone has the chance to thrive.