By: Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., M.S., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS
I recently watched the film “Flipped,” directed by Rob Reiner, which charmingly depicts the journey of two young characters, Juli Baker and Bryce Loski, as they navigate their evolving feelings for each other from second grade through middle school. Their story is filled with the sweetness and complexity of first love, but it also sheds light on important social issues.
One notable aspect is Juli’s uncle, who has an intellectual disability and lives in a private facility. The film illustrates how therapeutic recreation plays a role in this setting, as the residents are reported to be engage in yard work and gardening because it’s “therapeutic” These activities not only provide a sense of purpose but also contribute to their overall well-being through the therapeutic benefits of nature and physical activity.