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Dear Innovative Rec Therapist —

🌷 Welcome to the April 2025 Issue of Rec Therapy Today!

Spring is here—a season of renewal, growth, and fresh energy. As the days get brighter and flowers begin to bloom, we’re reminded of the power of healing, hope, and the meaningful work we do as recreational therapists.

In this issue, you’ll find inspiration, education, and encouragement to support you on your journey. Whether you’re exploring new relaxation techniques to reduce stress, diving into a powerful book, or connecting through playful games, we hope this month’s content uplifts your spirit and empowers your practice.

Thank you for all the heart and care you bring to those you serve. You are making a difference—and we’re honored to be part of your professional community.

Here’s to growth, gratitude, and great things ahead!

 Your friend and partner in Rec Therapy, 

Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., M.S., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS  

P.S. — Monthly giveaway is at bottom of this page, so you’ll have to scroll to the bottom. 

P.S.S. — Need CEUs? Go here: Click here for online self-study CEUs

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Join the many RTs who stay informed, earn CEUs, and connect through Rec Therapy Today.

Recreational therapists across the country turn to Rec Therapy Today for their CEU needs.

These professionals proudly wear their Rec Therapy Today T-shirts, representing a community dedicated to growth and excellence in the field.

Monthly CEU Catalogs 

Inspiration for the Month

Humor of the Month

Infographics for the Month

Holidays this Month

United States:

• April 1 (Tuesday): April Fool’s Day – A lighthearted day for jokes and pranks.

• April 15 (Tuesday): Tax Day – Deadline to file federal income taxes.

• April 17 (Thursday): National High Five Day – Celebrated on the third Thursday of April to spread good vibes.

• April 18 (Friday): Good Friday – A Christian holiday remembering the crucifixion of Jesus.

• April 20 (Sunday): Easter Sunday – Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• April 21 (Monday): Easter Monday – Observed in some areas, often with family traditions.

• April 22 (Tuesday): Earth Day – A day to focus on protecting the environment.

• April 23 (Wednesday): Administrative Professionals’ Day – Recognizing the work of administrative staff.

• April 24 (Thursday): Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day – Encourages youth career exploration.

Canada:

• April 6 (Sunday): Tartan Day – Celebrating Scottish heritage and culture.

• April 9 (Wednesday): Vimy Ridge Day – Honoring Canadian soldiers who fought in World War I.

• April 18 (Friday): Good Friday – A national holiday commemorating Jesus’ crucifixion.

• April 20 (Sunday): Easter Sunday – Marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• April 21 (Monday): Easter Monday – A public holiday in some provinces and territories.

• April 28 (Monday): National Day of Mourning – Remembering workers who were injured or lost their lives on the job.

🌼 April Monthly Observations

• Stress Awareness Month

• Autism Acceptance Month

• Occupational Therapy Month

• National Volunteer Month

• National Garden Month

• Parkinson’s Awareness Month

• Alcohol Awareness Month

• Move More Month

• National Humor Month

Get Discount with our Corporate/ Group Rec Therapy CEUs Membeship

Contact us: Danny(at)DannyPettry.com to receive your group membership.

 April Activity Ideas

🌸 “Bloom Where You’re Planted” – Positivity Flower Craft

Focus: Affect Regulation + Relaxation

• Supplies Needed: Construction paper or cardstock, markers/crayons/colored pencils, scissors, glue, and optional flower templates.

• Instructions:

  • Each participant creates a flower with petals.

  • On each petal, they write or draw something that helps them grow (e.g., kindness, friends, therapy, coping skills).

  • Participants decorate their flowers with bright colors and positive affirmations.

  • Optional: group members can share one petal with the group.

• Benefits: Encourages emotional expression, supports relaxation through creativity, and builds self-awareness and emotional insight.

🧩 “Piece by Piece” – Autism Acceptance Puzzle Collage

Focus: Social/Interpersonal + Cognitive Building

• Supplies Needed: Pre-cut paper puzzle pieces, markers, stickers, glue, and a large poster board.

• Instructions:

  • Each participant decorates a puzzle piece to represent themselves or what inclusion means to them.

  • Group discusses how everyone is a unique and valuable part of the whole.

  • Puzzle pieces are assembled into a large collaborative collage.

• Benefits: Promotes self-expression and understanding of neurodiversity, enhances collaboration, and strengthens group connection.

🧘 “Rainy Day Relaxation” – Guided Imagery & Breathing

Focus: Distress Tolerance + Relaxation

• Supplies Needed: Soothing music or nature sounds, optional blankets or soft lighting, and a guided imagery script (e.g., “Spring Rain on a Peaceful Meadow”).

• Instructions:

  • Begin with a few minutes of deep breathing.

  • Lead participants through a relaxing, spring-themed guided imagery session.

  • Conclude with quiet reflection or optional journaling.

• Benefits: Reduces stress and tension, promotes emotional regulation, and encourages mindfulness and inner calm.

🐣 “Egg-cellent Hunt for Coping Skills”

Focus: Cognitive Building + Affect Regulation

• Supplies Needed: Plastic eggs, slips of paper with coping skills or affirmations, and baskets or bags for collecting.

• Instructions:

  • Hide plastic eggs filled with slips of paper around the room or outside.

  • Participants search for eggs and open them to discover coping strategies or feel-good tasks (e.g., “Name 3 things you’re grateful for”).

  • After the hunt, the group discusses helpful coping skills and how to use them.

• Benefits: Reinforces healthy coping strategies, promotes active engagement, and builds emotional resilience.

🌼 “Grow Together” – Springtime Partner Games

Focus: Social/Interpersonal + Cognitive Flexibility

• Supplies Needed: Balloons, beach balls, cones, or other adaptive materials; a list of cooperative, spring-themed challenges.

• Instructions:

  • Divide the group into pairs or small teams.

  • Teams complete fun and playful challenges that require cooperation (e.g., “Keep the balloon up using only elbows”).

  • Wrap up with a group reflection on teamwork, communication, and fun.

• Benefits: Fosters social interaction and communication, encourages flexible thinking, and builds connection through play.

Recent BlogPosts 

Recent Posts

• People Often Do Good Deeds: Stories That Inspire Us to Make a Difference 
• Public Appreciation for ATRA and Advocacy Call to Action
• How Recreational Therapy Is Transforming Veterans’ Lives: 10 Powerful Testimonials
• RT in HEART — Teleconference Winners Announced.
• Psychiatric Rehabilitation Therapist – FT
• Reclaiming Life: How Recreational Therapy Transforms the Lives of Veterans
• Expressive Arts in Recreational Therapy: Healing Through Creativity
• The Power of Gardening in Recreational Therapy
• A Perfect Match: Music and Recreational Therapy
• How to Advocate for Recreational Therapy
• Fun and Engaging Activities for Older Adults
• How to Help Patients with Anxiety—By Simply Listening
• Signs of Burnout in Recreational Therapists
• Sensory Rooms: A Calming Oasis for Therapy
• Three Fun Icebreakers to Get Everyone Laughing
• You Can’t Control Others—But You Can Influence Them

Article of the Month:

Showers Bring… Stress Relief!
How Recreational Therapists Can Help People Recognize and Manage Stress Through Relaxation Activities

By: Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., M.S., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS

Let’s face it—life can be stressful. Whether it’s deadlines at work, relationship tensions, health worries, or just the constant go-go-go of everyday living, stress has a way of sneaking into our lives. As recreational therapists, we’re in a unique position to help people understand what stress looks like, how it affects them, and how to cope with it in healthy, activity-based ways.

🌪️ What Causes Stress?

Stress can come from many places. Some common causes include:

• Big life changes (moving, divorce, new job)

• Financial worries

• School or work pressure

• Illness or injury

• Relationship problems

• Caregiving responsibilities

• Information overload or social media burnout

Everyone’s stress triggers are different, but the effects on the body and mind are often similar.

😣 Symptoms of Stress: Emotional and Physical

Stress doesn’t just live in the mind—it shows up in the body, too. Here are common signs to look out for:

Emotional Symptoms:

• Feeling anxious or overwhelmed

• Irritability or mood swings

• Trouble concentrating

• Restlessness

• Sadness or depression

Physical Symptoms:

• Headaches or muscle tension

• Fatigue

• Upset stomach or digestive issues

• Trouble sleeping

• Racing heart or shallow breathing

Recognizing these symptoms is the first step in managing stress effectively.

🎯 Activity-Based Techniques to Regulate Stress

Recreational therapists know that fun and meaningful activities can be powerful tools for healing. Here are some tried-and-true relaxation activities to help regulate stress:

🖼️ Creative Expression

• Art and coloring: Adult coloring books, painting, or mandala drawing help quiet the mind.

• Journaling: Writing down thoughts, feelings, and gratitude helps release emotional tension.

• Music therapy: Listening to calming music or playing an instrument can lower heart rate and reduce anxiety.

🌿 Nature and Movement

• Nature walks or outdoor recreation: Being in green spaces helps reduce cortisol levels.

• Gentle stretching or yoga: Encourages mindfulness and loosens tight muscles.

• Tai chi or qigong: These slow, flowing movements promote relaxation and inner calm.

🧘‍♂️ Mind-Body Relaxation

• Deep breathing exercises: Try “box breathing” (inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4).

• Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and release different muscle groups one by one.

• Guided imagery: Use visualization scripts to mentally escape to a peaceful place.

😄 Laughter and Play

• Laughter yoga or funny videos: Laughter truly is good medicine.

• Board games or group activities: Promote joy and social connection.

• Pet therapy or animal-assisted activities: Being with animals can lower blood pressure and increase serotonin.

🔄 Daily Relaxation Routines

Encourage participants to create personal relaxation rituals:

• Take 10 minutes of quiet time each morning

• Use a calming scent (like lavender) during the day

• Listen to a favorite playlist before bed

• Practice mindfulness or gratitude at meals

💡 Final Thoughts

Stress is a part of life—but it doesn’t have to take over. With awareness and a toolkit of relaxing, engaging activities, we can help people take back control of their well-being. As recreational therapists, we bring joy, creativity, and calm into the lives of those we serve—one activity at a time.

Let’s keep helping others bloom this April… rain or shine! 🌸

Book of the Month

The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Dr. Joseph Murphy

This timeless classic explores how the thoughts we hold in our subconscious mind shape our reality. Dr. Joseph Murphy teaches that by changing our internal beliefs—especially through affirmations, visualization, and positive thinking—we can create positive outcomes in health, relationships, and success.

Key Lessons from the Book:

• The subconscious mind accepts what we tell it—so feeding it positive, hopeful messages is vital.

• Visualization and repetition help reprogram limiting beliefs.

• Faith, imagination, and gratitude are powerful tools for healing and personal growth.

Why Recreational Therapists Should Read It: Recreational therapists can apply these insights to help clients build self-confidence, foster motivation, and improve emotional wellness. This book also offers personal growth tools for therapists themselves—reminding us of the quiet power of our thoughts and the importance of keeping our minds aligned with healing, hope, and purpose.

Encouragement for Readers:
You already use the power of play and creativity to inspire change. This book will help you harness the power of the mind to deepen your impact—both professionally and personally.

Game of the Month

🎲 April 2025 Game of the Month
Colorbrain: Ultimate Family Board Game
Fun for All Ages | 2–20 Players | Easy to Learn, Hard to Forget!

Looking for a colorful, laughter-filled game that’s great for kids, adults, and everyone in between? Colorbrain is a top pick! This fast-paced trivia game puts a vibrant twist on memory, pop culture, and color knowledge. Players answer questions using color cards—like “What color is Shrek?” or “What color is the lid on a jar of Nutella?”—and score points for correct answers others don’t guess!

Why We Love It:
It’s competitive and collaborative. It sparks conversation, triggers nostalgia, and brings out the giggles. Best of all, it’s totally inclusive—with room for up to 20 players, it’s perfect for group sessions.

🎨 Therapeutic Benefits of Colorbrain

🧠 Cognitive Skills

• Boosts memory recall and color association

• Encourages attention to detail

• Strengthens problem-solving and decision-making

😄 Emotional Well-Being

• Promotes joy, humor, and a lighthearted atmosphere

• Reduces stress through laughter and play

• Encourages expression in a non-threatening way

🗣️ Social Skills

• Fosters teamwork and healthy competition

• Encourages turn-taking, active listening, and communication

• Great icebreaker to build group cohesion

🎯 Executive Functioning

• Supports strategic thinking and impulse control

• Encourages flexible thinking and managing multiple rules

Rec Therapist Tip:
Use Colorbrain as a warm-up game for groups or as a brain-boosting, mood-lifting session closer. You can even adapt the game by creating your own color-based questions tailored to your group’s interests.

In short: Colorbrain is more than a game—it’s a colorful catalyst for connection, creativity, and cognitive fun!

Rec Therapist of the Month:

Gerald Broadway, CTRS  

At Rec Therapy Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Gerald Broadway, an inspiring Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) whose work is making a difference in adult and senior mental health care.

🎓 Education & Credentials

• B.S. in Therapeutic Recreation

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

💼 Professional Setting

Gerald provides recreational therapy services in Adult Psychology and Senior Care Psychology settings, working with individuals ages 18 to 100. His dedication spans a broad population, supporting mental wellness across the adult lifespan.

🧠 Interventions He Provides

Gerald uses a wide range of interventions to meet the unique needs of his clients, including:

• Cognitive Stimulation

• Memory Stimulation

• Coping Skills Development

• Leisure Outlets and Leisure Skills Training

• Relaxation Techniques

💬 In His Own Words

Why did you become a recreational therapist?

“The love of people with mental illness.”

What do you enjoy most about your profession?

“The people I serve.”

What advice do you have for new recreational therapists?

“You have to have a genuine passion for people.”

Where do you see the future of rec therapy?

“Hopefully it will continue to grow.”

What do you enjoy about Rec Therapy Today?

“The different CEU opportunities! I like all that it offers.”

Anything else you’d like to share?

“I love helping people.”

Gerald’s heart for helping others and his dedication to therapeutic recreation in mental health care is what makes him truly stand out. We’re proud to recognize Gerald Broadway as our April 2025 Rec Therapist of the Month!

🌟 Be Featured as Rec Therapy Today’s Rec Therapist of the Month! 🌟

Are you passionate about recreational therapy?

Do you want to inspire others in the field?

Here’s your chance to shine!

It’s easy to apply:
✅ Answer a few simple questions.
✅ Share your story and insights.
✅ Submit and let us celebrate YOU!

Your work makes a difference—let us highlight your dedication and inspire others in the RT community. Apply now and take the spotlight as a Rec Therapist of the Month!

✨ You deserve to be recognized! ✨

Danny Pettry’s Corner

Bookstore Finds & A Love for Learning

By Danny W. Pettry II

If you know me, you know I love books. Whether it’s psychology, personal growth, or recreational therapy, I’m always reading, learning, and collecting. So, I was thrilled to discover that a new used bookstore just opened right here in my hometown of Beckley, West Virginia!

The place is called Burm Bookstore, located at 209 Prince Street. It has a great local vibe and offers a little bit of everything—from new and old books to vinyl records. On my first visit, I picked up a few treasures, including a 1990 social psychology textbook (my favorite subject), a book on death and dying, and a well-worn copy of The Power of Your Subconscious Mind, which just so happens to be our Book of the Month!

There’s something special about holding an older book in your hands. It’s like holding a piece of history and wisdom at the same time. I’m excited to dive into these new (old) reads and share insights with you all throughout the month.

And the best part? You don’t have to be in Beckley to shop there!
People from around the world can buy books online at:
👉 www.burmbooksellers.com

Happy reading and happy discovering,
—Danny

Rec Therapy Today® Can Help You Earn All of Your Rec Therapy CEUs from the Comfort and Convenience of Your Own Home or Office™

Fun Pages for all Ages

Grab Your Rec Therapy Today Sweater for the Winter

Spotlight on Reader Contributions

In this section, we feature insightful articles, creative ideas, and success stories submitted by our vibrant Rec Therapy Today community.

Your experiences and expertise inspire and inform fellow professionals.

Spotlight Feature: 12 Steps to Sober Leisure: Revised Edition

Submit Your News to the Rec Therapy Today Newsletter and Blog

We’re always looking for new ways to showcase the incredible work recreational therapists like you are doing. That’s why we’re inviting you to share your insights, stories, and ideas with Rec Therapy Today!

Do you have a special program, activity, or success story you’d like to highlight? Perhaps you have tips, resources, or professional advice to inspire your fellow rec therapists?

Now’s your chance to be featured in our newsletter or on our blog!

Whether it’s a brief tip, a heartfelt story, or a unique program idea, your contribution can make a big impact in our community.

Why share?

• Showcase your creativity and expertise.
• Inspire others in the field of recreational therapy.
• Connect with our vibrant and supportive RT community.

We can’t wait to see what you’ll share! Thank you for helping us keep the rec therapy conversation alive and thriving.

Follow Rec Therapy Today on Social Media

The Danny P. 100% CEU Guarantee 

Danny Pettry/ Rec Therapy Today offers a full one-year 100% satisfation gaurantee or complete refund. 

March 2025 Winners — 

🐢🌻 March Giveaway Update!

We’re excited to announce that 60 lucky people will be receiving a turtle bracelet in the mail as part of our March Giveaway! 🐢

But that’s not all…
We’re also sending out sunflower seeds 🌻 to 60 participants to help spread a little sunshine and positivity this spring.

If you entered the March giveaway, you might be one of the 60 people who’ll receive something special in your mailbox soon!

📬 Keep an eye out—and as always, good luck and best wishes from all of us at Rec Therapy Today!

Enter for the April 2025 Giveaway from Rec Therapy Today — 

We’re giving away three copies of Danny Pettry’s inspiring new book, Life Is Brief: 111 Quick Insights to Inspire, Challenge, and Motivate You.

Each book will come with a nice bookmark: a $10 amazon gift card! 

Want a chance to win? Just enter before midnight on April 20th!
✅ No purchase necessary
🚫 Purchasing does not increase your chances of winning

Don’t miss this uplifting read—perfect for a quick boost of motivation!

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