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Danny Pettry/ Rec Therapy Today has consistenly sent out a monthly email for Recreational Therapists since 2004.

Dear Innovative Rec Therapist —

Welcome to the final issue of 2024! As we wrap up another remarkable year, this month’s newsletter is packed with holiday cheer, resources to inspire your practice, and a look ahead to exciting opportunities in the new year. Whether you’re celebrating successes from the past months or gearing up for fresh beginnings, we’re here to support you on your journey as recreational therapists.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• December’s Book of the Month: A must-read to spark joy and professional growth.
• Game of the Month: A festive activity to engage participants of all ages during the holiday season.
• Spotlight Features: Stories of resilience and creativity from our Rec Therapy community.
• Holiday Giveaway: Enter for a chance to win something special and spread the joy!
• Self-Care Tips: Because you deserve to finish the year recharged and ready for what’s next.

As always, thank you for being part of the Rec Therapy Today family. Together, we’re making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. Wishing you a season of peace, joy, and reflection.

Here’s to finishing 2024 strong and stepping into 2025 with enthusiasm!

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. 

What Makes Rec Therapy Today so Special

At Rec Therapy Today, we are passionate about supporting recreational therapists through innovative continuing education, and community-building. Recently, we asked our readers to share what they love most about Rec Therapy Today, and their feedback was heartwarming and inspiring. Here’s a summary of the key themes from the responses:

1. Easy Access to Continuing Education (CEUs)

Many readers emphasized how much they value the convenience, affordability, and accessibility of CEU opportunities offered through Rec Therapy Today. Highlights included:

• A variety of CEU courses and topics to choose from.
• Free and affordable options for professional growth.
• Online accessibility, allowing therapists to learn at their own pace from the comfort of their homes.

2. Informative and Engaging Resources

Readers praised the wealth of information provided through newsletters, articles, webinars, and resources:

• Monthly newsletters filled with tips, activity ideas, and professional insights.
• Information that is relevant, concise, and easy to use.
• Diverse topics that help therapists stay informed and improve their practice.

3. Community and Support

A sense of community and connection stood out as a significant reason readers love Rec Therapy Today:

• Feeling supported and connected to other recreational therapists.
• Networking and educational opportunities that foster collaboration.
• Advocacy for the recreational therapy profession.

4. Inspiration and Motivation

Readers expressed appreciation for the positive energy, encouragement, and inspiration Rec Therapy Today brings to their work:

• Uplifting content that reignites their passion for recreational therapy.
• Creative ideas for group activities, programming, and therapeutic interventions.
• A platform that highlights the value and importance of recreational therapy.

5. Affordability and Accessibility

Affordability and ease of access were recurring themes:

• The ability to access affordable courses and resources without the need to travel.
• Flexibility to complete courses and utilize resources on their own schedule.

6. Danny’s Personal Touch

Many readers specifically acknowledged the founder, Danny, for his dedication and commitment:

• Thoughtful touches like personalized emails and little gifts.
• A caring, approachable attitude that makes Rec Therapy Today feel like a family.

In Their Words

Here are some direct quotes from our readers about what they love:

• “It’s a one-stop shop for everything a recreational therapist needs.”
• “I love how engaging it is. Like we are all a family.”
• “The ease of getting CEUs, the fun giveaways, and the newsletters full of resources and positivity.”
• “Danny’s love of therapeutic recreation shines through everything he does.”

A Heartfelt Thank You

To all our readers: Thank you for your kind words and for being part of the Rec Therapy Today community. Your feedback inspires us to continue providing the resources, education, and support that recreational therapists need to thrive.

Together, we’re making a difference—one CEU, one activity idea, and one smile at a time.

Inspiration for the Month

Humor of the Month

Infographics for the Month

Holidays this Month

General and Secular Holidays

• December 7: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (U.S.)
• December 21: Winter Solstice (marks the shortest day of the year)
• December 24: Christmas Eve
• December 25: Christmas Day
• December 26: Boxing Day (Canada)
• December 31: New Year’s Eve

Christian Holidays

• December 1: First Sunday of Advent (starts the Christian season of preparation for Christmas)
• December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Catholic observance)
• December 24: Christmas Eve
• December 25: Christmas Day
• December 28: Feast of the Holy Innocents (Christian)

Jewish Holidays

• December 25 – January 2, 2025: Hanukkah (Festival of Lights, starting on the evening of December 24 and lasting 8 days)

Hindu Holidays

• December 12: Dhanu Sankranti (marks the beginning of the month of Dhanu in the Hindu calendar)

Buddhist Holidays

• December 8: Bodhi Day (commemorates the Buddha’s enlightenment)

Kwanzaa (African-American Cultural Holiday)

• December 26 – January 1, 2025: Kwanzaa (celebrates African heritage and culture)

Get Discount with our Corporate/ Group Rec Therapy CEUs Membeship

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

Featured Article for the Month

Self-Care for Recreational Therapists: Ending the Year Strong

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

As a recreational therapist, people might assume your job is all “fun and games.” And while our work is incredibly rewarding, it comes with challenges that can leave even the most dedicated professionals feeling stretched thin—especially at the end of the year.

The Reality of Rec Therapy Stress

Recreational therapists often balance a wide range of responsibilities that go far beyond leading activities. Here are just a few examples of stressors we face:

• Ensuring Patient Safety: In settings like psychiatric facilities, you’re always on high alert to ensure patients don’t access anything that could harm themselves or others.
• Motivating Participation: Encouraging individuals who are disengaged, resistant, or emotionally drained to take steps toward their own well-being can be emotionally exhausting.
• Endless Paperwork: Documenting every session, progress note, and treatment plan is necessary but can feel overwhelming.
• Year-End Deadlines: Whether it’s completing CEUs, updating care plans, or preparing for audits, the end of the year often comes with added pressure.
• Managing Group Dynamics: Balancing the needs of diverse individuals in a group setting while staying mindful of triggers and potential conflicts requires constant mental and emotional effort.
• Personal Sacrifices: While pouring energy into your patients and clients, it’s easy to neglect your own well-being.

The Importance of Self-Care

Taking care of yourself isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and your ability to serve others depends on your physical, emotional, and mental health.

Recreation Ideas

1. Snowflake Art Station (Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• White paper
• Scissors
• Markers, glitter, or stickers (optional)

Instructions:
First, fold a square piece of paper diagonally to make a triangle, then fold it again into a smaller triangle. Second, cut small shapes along the edges (triangles, circles, etc.). Third, unfold the paper to reveal your snowflake. Finally, decorate your snowflake with markers, glitter, or stickers if desired.

2. Hot Cocoa Bar & Gratitude Jar (Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Hot cocoa packets, marshmallows, whipped cream, and mugs
• A jar, small slips of paper, and pens

Instructions:
First, set up a hot cocoa station with all the toppings. Second, provide each participant with a slip of paper to write something they’re grateful for. Third, collect the slips in a jar. Finally, read them aloud to foster positivity and connection.

3. Winter Nature Walk Bingo (Outdoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Bingo cards (customized with winter-themed items: pinecones, squirrels, snow, etc.)
• Clipboards and pens

Instructions:
First, create bingo cards featuring common winter sights in your area. Second, take participants on a nature walk, encouraging them to mark items they see on their cards. Third, reward the first person to get bingo with a small prize.

4. Holiday Charades (Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Slips of paper with holiday-themed prompts (e.g., decorating a tree, sledding, building a snowman)
• A bowl to hold the prompts

Instructions:
First, write holiday-themed actions or scenes on slips of paper and place them in a bowl. Second, divide participants into teams. Third, have one person from each team draw a prompt and act it out while their team guesses.

5. DIY Snow Globes (Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Mason jars
• Distilled water
• Glycerin
• Glitter
• Small waterproof figurines
• Hot glue gun

Instructions:
First, glue a figurine to the inside of the mason jar lid. Second, fill the jar with water, a few drops of glycerin, and glitter. Third, screw the lid on tightly, ensuring the figurine is submerged. Finally, shake and enjoy your snow globe!

6. S’mores Night by the Fire (Outdoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Fire pit or outdoor fireplace
• Graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows
• Skewers

Instructions:
First, set up a safe area around the fire. Second, provide participants with s’mores supplies and teach them how to toast marshmallows. Third, encourage storytelling or a sing-along while everyone enjoys their s’mores.

7. Winter Scavenger Hunt (Outdoor or Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• List of winter-themed items to find (e.g., red scarf, candy cane, pinecone)
• Small bags or baskets

Instructions:
First, hide the items around a designated area if indoors, or create a list for outdoor exploration. Second, give each participant a list and a bag. Third, declare the first person to find all items on the list as the winner.

8. Gingerbread House Decorating Contest (Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Gingerbread house kits or graham crackers for DIY houses
• Icing, candy, sprinkles, and other decorations

Instructions:
First, provide participants with a gingerbread house kit or graham crackers and icing to build their own. Second, set up a decorating station with various candies and decorations. Third, judge the houses based on creativity, neatness, or holiday spirit.

9. Snow Painting (Outdoor)

Supplies Needed:

• Spray bottles
• Water
• Food coloring

Instructions:
First, fill spray bottles with water and add a few drops of food coloring to each. Second, take participants outside to spray colorful designs onto the snow. Third, encourage participants to vote on their favorite creations.

10. Cozy Movie & Pajama Day (Indoor)

Supplies Needed:

• A holiday or winter-themed movie
• Popcorn and snacks
• Blankets and pillows

Instructions:
First, invite participants to wear their coziest pajamas. Second, set up a comfortable viewing area with blankets and pillows. Third, enjoy the movie together in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.

Book of the Month

Courage to Be Happy by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga is a follow-up to the bestselling The Courage to Be Disliked. This thought-provoking book explores the idea that true happiness comes from within and is achievable when we take full responsibility for our lives. Through a dialogue between a philosopher and a young person, it delves into Adlerian psychology, teaching readers how to overcome fear, build meaningful relationships, and embrace the freedom to live authentically.

Why This Book Matters for Recreational Therapists

Recreational therapists can benefit from Courage to Be Happy by:

• Understanding Personal Growth: The book’s focus on taking responsibility and fostering self-worth aligns with the goals of helping clients achieve personal empowerment.
• Fostering Resilience: It offers tools for overcoming fear and adversity, which can inspire therapeutic approaches to support clients during tough times.
• Building Meaningful Relationships: The lessons on connection and community can help therapists strengthen rapport with clients and guide them toward healthier relationships.
• Promoting Self-Care: Its message of living authentically and finding inner contentment serves as a reminder for therapists to prioritize their own well-being.

This book provides valuable insights into the power of choice, mindset, and courage—tools that can enhance your practice and personal growth. It’s a perfect read for ending the year on a note of reflection and renewal.

Game of the Month

Game Summary: Chat Chains

Chat Chains: Counselors Conversation Game for Mindfulness and Social Skills is a card-based game designed to spark meaningful conversations and build connection. It encourages players to reflect on their thoughts, share personal experiences, and practice active listening, all while promoting mindfulness and social-emotional learning. The game is easy to use, with prompts that range from light and fun to deeper, thought-provoking topics, making it versatile for various group dynamics.

Why Recreational Therapists Will Enjoy This Game

Recreational therapists will appreciate Chat Chains because it:

• Fosters Connection: Helps participants build trust and strengthen social skills, making it ideal for group therapy sessions.
• Promotes Mindfulness: Encourages self-awareness and thoughtful reflection, aligning with therapeutic goals.
• Supports Emotional Growth: Provides a safe space for individuals to express themselves and explore their feelings.
• Adaptable for All Ages: Works well with teens, adults, and mixed groups, making it a versatile tool for therapy.
• Fun and Engaging: Combines therapeutic benefits with enjoyable gameplay, ensuring participants stay engaged.

This game is a perfect addition to any recreational therapist’s toolkit, offering a creative and meaningful way to support clients’ growth while fostering connection and mindfulness.

Rec Therapist of the Month:

Kimberly Taylor 

Hometown: Monroeville, Indiana

Education:

• B.S. Recreation Management/Therapeutic Recreation Emphasis, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana (1997)

Certifications:

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
• Autism Exercise Specialist

Why She Chose Recreational Therapy:
Kimberly discovered recreational therapy while studying occupational therapy. After speaking with her advisor, she realized her passion aligned more closely with the principles of RT. She fell in love with the field and all it offers.

Work Setting and Population:
Kimberly works in a community setting under the Medicaid Waiver, serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) aged 7 to 52.

Therapeutic Interventions:
Her interventions include community integration, safety awareness, healthy living, and socialization, tailoring each session to meet her clients’ unique needs.

What She Loves About RT:
Kimberly enjoys the diversity and flexibility of recreational therapy, appreciating that no two days or interventions are the same. She values the opportunity to adapt her plans to meet her clients’ immediate needs.

Advice for New Recreational Therapists:

• Don’t let misunderstandings about RT discourage you; stay true to the heart of the profession.
• Remember, the field isn’t about money—it’s about helping others.
• Seek settings and opportunities that align with your passions and happiness.

Thoughts on the Future of RT:
Kimberly sees both opportunities and challenges ahead. While the field has great potential, the threat of program closures due to lack of awareness is concerning. She encourages continued advocacy for the value of RT.

Words of Admiration:
Kimberly admires all recreational therapists who bring passion, perseverance, and dedication to the profession, working hard to make it even more impactful every day.

What She Enjoys About Rec Therapy Today:
Kimberly appreciates the accessible CEU opportunities and the way the platform highlights valuable resources and updates in the field, keeping therapists informed and engaged.

Message to Fellow RTs:
“Keep striving, keep pushing for better, and don’t settle. Explore opportunities that bring you joy and make a difference—our field has endless possibilities!”

Congratulations to Kimberly Taylor for being an inspiring advocate and practitioner of recreational therapy!

🌟 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! ✨

Video of the Month

The video, “THE SEED // Inspirational Short Film,” shows the journey of a small seed growing into a strong tree. It’s a powerful reminder of patience, resilience, and the beauty of transformation.

For recreational therapists, this video is a great tool to inspire clients. It highlights that even during tough times, growth is happening. Like the seed, we all need time and care to reach our potential.

It’s also a reminder that winter, like challenges in life, doesn’t last forever. Brighter days are ahead, and hope can help us get there. This simple, uplifting story is perfect for sparking discussions about growth and overcoming challenges.

Danny Pettry’s Corner

At the psychiatric residential treatment facility where I provide services, we’re focusing on something truly special this year—helping our teens feel the joy of making a difference.

We’ve filled their student store with a new shelf stocked with dog food, cat food, and small blankets for pets in need. The teens are enthusiastically decorating giant boxes for the local no-kill animal shelter, creating a heartwarming display of creativity and compassion.

Here’s how it works: the kids can choose to use some of their hard-earned reward tokens to “purchase” items to donate to the animals. It’s been incredible to see their excitement and generosity in action.

But we’re not stopping there! Staff—nurses, direct care staff, teachers, therapists, and more—are also getting involved. Our teens are designing flyers to encourage donations from the entire team, spreading the spirit of giving even further.

Of course, the highlight will be our special trip to the shelter to drop off the goods. We’ll load up the boxes, share some warm smiles, and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate for the road.

This project is about more than giving—it’s about building empathy, responsibility, and pride in making a difference. It’s a beautiful reminder of how small actions can create big ripples of kindness.

We’re excited to see how this effort will impact both the teens and the animals they’re helping. It’s a win-win that warms the heart!

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 Ugly Christmas Sweater

“The Sweater of All Sweaters”

We’ve shown off some gorgeous holiday sweaters above—festive, fun, and anything but ugly.

And then there’s this one.

Our brand logo. On a sweater. It’s so “ugly” it might just be cool. Maybe.

Wear it if you dare. Laugh with us if you must. Either way, it’s unforgettable!

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The Danny P. 100% CEU Guarantee 

November Winners

December 2024 Giveaway

We’re giving away 10 Amazon gift cards to 10 lucky winners this holiday season!

• 9 winners will be chosen from the U.S.
• 1 winner will be chosen from Canada.

✨ How to Enter:
It’s easy—just enter before midnight on December 15th for your chance to win!

No purchase required. Purchasing does not increase your odds of winning.

Don’t miss this chance to treat yourself or someone special. Enter now and good luck! 🍀