Dear Innovative Rec Therapist — 

Happy July and welcome to this month’s issue of Rec Therapy Today! As summer shines in full swing, we hope you’re finding time to relax, recharge, and of course—play!

This month, we’re focusing on freedom, fun, and flexibility—the heart of what makes recreational therapy so powerful. Whether you’re helping someone discover joy through adaptive sports, promoting relaxation through creative expression, or supporting mental wellness through meaningful leisure, your work changes lives every single day.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Our June CEU Bundle, featuring 7.5 CEUs across the lifespan.

• A spotlight on outdoor activities and sun-safe programs for all ages.

• The Book of the Month to inspire personal and professional growth.

• A fun giveaway—because everyone deserves a little surprise now and then.

We’re grateful you’re part of this amazing community of therapeutic recreation professionals.

Keep shining your light, bringing hope, and making the world a brighter, more playful place—one person at a time.

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

Rec Therapy Today — TRUSTED by Rec Therapists Everywhere

Why Rec Therapy Today? 

Looking for self-study CEUs that actually work for you?
At Rec Therapy Today, we make continuing education:

✅ Flexible – Learn anytime, anywhere
✅ Affordable – No subscriptions or hidden fees
✅ Relevant – Real-world courses written by a certified rec therapist
✅ Recognized – You’ll earn instant certificates that you can use for recertification.

We’re not just another CEU provider — we’re a community built by recreational therapists for recreational therapists.

Start earning your CEUs the easy way — with Rec Therapy Today.

The June 2025 CEU Bundle 

Earn 0.75 CEUs with this 5-course June 2025 bundle from Rec Therapy Today! Each self-paced course offers 0.15 CEUs and focuses on a specific life stage: Pediatrics, Adolescents, Young Adults, Adults, and Older Adults. These evidence-based courses align with NCTRC job analysis codes and are perfect for recreational therapists who serve across the lifespan.

Your July 2025 CEU Bundle will be released before the end of July.

Seeking Presenters for Sat. Aug. 30th, Webinar Date 

🎤 Call for Speakers – Free Webinar Day for Recreational Therapists!

🗓 Saturday, August 30, 2025
📍 Online | Hosted by Rec Therapy Today

We’re excited to announce a Free Webinar Day dedicated to supporting and celebrating recreational therapists!

This special event will feature five engaging sessions, all designed to educate, inspire, and uplift professionals in the field.

We’re currently seeking 5 passionate presenters to share their expertise on topics relevant to recreational therapy.

💼 Speakers will be paid for their time.
🎓 Each session will be 60 minutes.

Do you have a session idea?
Whether your passion is adaptive activities, mental health, ethics, self-care, or something innovative—you’re encouraged to apply!

👉 Submit your session proposal today!
Spots are limited, and we’d love to feature YOU.

Let’s make this an unforgettable day of learning, connection, and growth!

Inspiration for the Month

Download and share these graphics on your social media to promote Rec Therapy! 

Humor for the Month

Infographics for the Month

Holidays and Observations

🎉 Major Holidays & Observances – July 2025

🇺🇸 National Holidays

• July 4 – Independence Day (U.S.)
  Celebrate freedom with patriotic activities, music, and games.

🌍 Awareness Months

• National Parks and Recreation Month
  Promote outdoor leisure, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.

• Disability Pride Month
  Celebrate inclusion, accessibility, and the achievements of people with disabilities.

• Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
  Highlight the importance of culturally competent mental health care.

📆 Notable Days

• July 1 – International Joke Day
  Laughter is therapeutic! Host a joke contest or funny skit group.

• July 7 – Global Forgiveness Day
  Great for journaling, reflection, or a healing discussion group.

• July 15 – Give Something Away Day
  Encourage kindness—host a donation drive or gift exchange.

• July 17 – World Emoji Day 😀
  Use emojis to explore feelings and nonverbal communication.

• July 24 – International Self-Care Day
  Promote wellness, relaxation, and self-compassion practices.

• July 26 – Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
  Host an educational activity about disability rights and accessibility.

• July 30 – International Day of Friendship
  Perfect for team-building games, connection activities, and social bonding.

Rec Therapy Today — CEU Reminders:

Email: Danny(at)DannyPettry.com to learn more about our group/ coporate CEU disocunts. 

Actiivty Ideas for the Month

1. Patriotic Rock Painting

Supplies: Smooth rocks, red/white/blue paint, brushes, paper towels
Instructions: Invite participants to paint patriotic or freedom-themed designs on rocks. Once dry, place them around the facility or in the community.
Benefits: Creative expression (emotional), fine motor skills (physical), pride and contribution (social/leisure)

2. Adaptive Water Balloon Toss

Supplies: Water balloons, plastic buckets, towels
Instructions: Pair participants and have them toss balloons back and forth, stepping farther apart each round. Adaptive grips or scoops can be used.
Benefits: Gross motor (physical), coordination (cognitive), teamwork (social), fun (leisure)

3. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Supplies: Checklist of outdoor items (e.g., leaf, bird, feather), pens, clipboards
Instructions: Explore a park or courtyard and check off as many items as possible. Offer clues or photos for those who need help identifying.
Benefits: Problem-solving (cognitive), mobility (physical), awareness of environment (leisure/independence)

4. DIY Lemonade Stand

Supplies: Lemons, sugar, cups, pitcher, optional table/signs
Instructions: Work together to squeeze lemons, mix lemonade, and offer servings to peers or staff. Optional fundraiser or social hour.
Benefits: Life skills (independence), social interaction (social), following steps (cognitive), confidence (emotional)

5. Flag Craft Collage

Supplies: Paper, scissors, glue sticks, red/white/blue paper or fabric
Instructions: Create a U.S. flag or freedom-themed design using paper collage techniques. Display in a hallway or community board.
Benefits: Fine motor (physical), focus and sequencing (cognitive), expression (emotional), contribution (social)

6. Friendship Bracelet Station

Supplies: Embroidery thread, beads, safety scissors, clipboards or tape
Instructions: Teach basic patterns for making bracelets. Encourage participants to make one for themselves and one to give away.
Benefits: Fine motor (physical), empathy (emotional), generosity (social), creativity (leisure)

7. Picnic & Parachute Games

Supplies: Parachute, light snacks, blanket or picnic table, outdoor space
Instructions: Host an outdoor picnic followed by parachute games (popcorn, waves, color match).
Benefits: Movement (physical), relaxation (emotional), group participation (social), sensory engagement (cognitive)

8. Sun Safety Education Bingo

Supplies: Bingo boards with sun safety tips (hydration, sunscreen, hats), markers, prizes
Instructions: Call out sun safety tips or facts and have participants mark them off. Use this as an educational icebreaker.
Benefits: Health awareness (independence), learning (cognitive), group fun (social/leisure)

9. Outdoor Music Jam

Supplies: Hand drums, shakers, tambourines, Bluetooth speaker for backing tracks
Instructions: Create a rhythm circle outdoors. Encourage participants to join in or take turns leading a beat.
Benefits: Expression (emotional), coordination (physical), listening skills (cognitive), connection (social)

10. Freedom Wall Reflection

Supplies: Poster board, markers, sticky notes
Instructions: Ask participants to write or draw what freedom means to them. Place notes on a “Freedom Wall” for group reflection.
Benefits: Self-expression (emotional), communication (social), reflection (cognitive), community pride (leisure/independence)

Featured Article of the Month

Time Is Ticking: Radical Acceptance Across the Lifespan
By Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS

Tick… tick… tick.

From the moment we are born, the clock begins counting down. Life is a limited-time opportunity, and no one escapes its most sobering truth: we all die. Rather than fear this reality, radical acceptance calls us to face it head-on—to honor time’s passing, and to live with intention.

As recreational therapists, we support individuals across the lifespan—from children discovering play, to teens wrestling with identity, to older adults reflecting on legacy. No matter the age or stage, the questions remain the same:
“Why am I here?” “What does this all mean?” “How can I make the most of my time?”

These are existential questions, and they are deeply human.

Existentialism teaches that meaning is not given—it is created. It’s our job to make meaning through relationships, service, creativity, and joy. In recreational therapy, we help clients engage in meaningful leisure that aligns with their values and builds identity.

Radical acceptance doesn’t mean giving up—it means letting go of denial and fear. It frees us to show up, love more deeply, laugh more often, and live more fully.

So whether you’re helping a child discover imagination, a teen find their voice, or an elder tell their story—remember this:

Time is ticking. Let’s use it well.

Book of the Month

Pete Walker’s Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving is a powerful, compassionate, and insightful guide for understanding the long-term impact of childhood trauma and emotional neglect. Drawing from his experience as both a therapist and a survivor, Walker offers readers a roadmap toward healing and reclaiming a sense of self.

The book explores how complex trauma affects identity, emotional regulation, relationships, and daily functioning. Unlike single-incident PTSD, Complex PTSD (CPTSD) often stems from repeated abuse or neglect over time—especially in early developmental years. Walker normalizes common trauma responses such as people-pleasing (fawning), emotional flashbacks, and inner critics, while providing practical tools for building self-compassion, boundaries, and emotional resilience.

Why Recreational Therapists Should Read This Book:
Recreational therapists work with individuals who often carry invisible wounds. Understanding CPTSD allows us to:

• Recognize trauma-related behaviors and triggers

• Promote safety, trust, and empowerment in therapeutic recreation

• Support emotional regulation through creative, leisure-based interventions

• Encourage personal growth through self-expression, mindfulness, and play

This book is especially useful for working with teens and adults in behavioral health settings, helping us meet clients with greater empathy and effectiveness.

Game of the Month

🎲 July 2025 Game of the Month
Super Skills Outdoor Yard Game
Fun for Kids, Teens, and Adults – From The World Game Store

Looking to turn your backyard, park, or summer camp into a high-energy adventure zone? The Super Skills Outdoor Yard Game is our July pick for a reason—it’s packed with 120 fast-paced, skill-based challenges that blend movement, laughter, and just the right amount of splash!

With four ways to play—solo missions, partner teamwork, trick-shot duels, and group races—this game meets a wide range of recreational therapy goals across all age groups. It’s great for icebreakers, team building, or just pure summer fun.

🧰 What’s Included:

• 120 Challenge Cards

• 2 Flying Discs, 2 Balls, 2 Spoons

• Water Gun & Reusable Water Balloon

• Blindfold, Chalk, Elastic Rope

• Sand Timer, Scoreboard & Marker

🎯 Rec Therapy Benefits:

• Physical – Promotes movement, coordination, and agility

• Social – Fosters cooperation, friendly competition, and peer bonding

• Cognitive – Encourages focus, memory, and strategic thinking

• Emotional – Builds confidence, laughter, and resilience through play

• Leisure – Engages clients in joyful, meaningful recreation

Whether you’re working with youth, teens, or “big kids at heart,” this game is easy to learn, tough to quit, and perfect for summer programming.

🏆 Game on—let the Super Skills Challenge begin!

Get the game here:

Rec Therapist of the Month

Stephen Dayton, CTRS
Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation | Hartford Hospital, Connecticut
B.S. Therapeutic Recreation, Southern Connecticut State University (2015)

Featured Ted Talk for the Month

We Don’t Move On from Grief. We Move Forward with It.”
Speaker: Nora McInerny
Length: 15 minutes

Summary:

Nora McInerny delivers a heartfelt and humorous talk about loss, love, and life after tragedy. She challenges the myth of “moving on” and instead reframes grief as something we carry with us—and grow from—throughout life. Her message encourages radical acceptance of pain and a deeper appreciation of the present moment.

Why It’s Perfect for Rec Therapists:

• Speaks to clients dealing with loss, trauma, or life transitions

• Encourages therapists to validate and honor the grief journey

• Reinforces our role in helping people rediscover meaning and connection

• Offers a compassionate, real-world view of healing through recreation

🧠 Use it as a springboard for group discussion or journaling: “What do we carry with us—and how do we move forward with hope?”

Danny Pettry’s Corner

Vertical Weekends & Family Favorites

This July, I’m doing something a little different. Instead of taking a full horizontal week off from work, I’m giving myself the gift of vertical weekends—taking every Sunday off to focus on what matters most: family, fun, and good food.

I believe in practicing what we preach as recreational therapists—making time for leisure, rest, and meaningful connection. So I’ve planned some local day trips and restaurant visits with my loved ones. Here are a few of our favorite spots we’ll be revisiting this month:

🍔 Kirk’s in Hinton – for down-home classics with a view
🥪 Macado’s in Bluefield – sandwiches, nostalgia, and comfort
🥗 Secret Sandwich Society in Fayetteville – local flavors, great vibes
🥡 Young Chow’s in Beckley – because you can’t go wrong with great Chinese food

No matter how busy life gets, I hope you’ll find time this month for your own version of vertical weekends—even if it’s just one meal, one laugh, or one quiet walk. Because time is ticking, and the best moments are the ones we create intentionally.

Stay playful, stay present,
– Danny W. Pettry II

Recent Blogposts 

Recent Posts

• The Benefits of Earning CEUs Online (And Why Rec Therapists Love It)
• What Recreational Therapists Need to Know to Provide Effective Services for Geriatrics
• What Recreational Therapists Need to Know to Provide Effective Services for Adults
• What Recreational Therapists Need to Know to Provide Effective Services for Young Adults
• What Recreational Therapists Need to Know to Provide Services for Teens
• What Recreational Therapists Need to Know to Provide Services for Pediatric Patients
• Outside the Box Inc. needs Recreational Therapist — Salary: $24.00-$30.00
• Laugh It Off – The Uplifting Effects of Humor Therapy
• Lights, Camera, Cope – Using Cinema for Self-Discovery
• Growing Wellness – Horticulture as a Path to Healing
• Write It Out – The Therapeutic Magic of Expressive Writing
• Healing Through Stories – The Power of Bibliotherapy

Recent Rec Therapy YouTube Videos 

Fun Pages for All Ages

(Print for your Clients) 

Winners

We love sending smiles through the mail—and here’s a quick update on our recent giveaways!

📚 April Winners – We mailed out 16 copies of Danny’s book, Life is Brief, to our lucky recipients. We hope the reflections and insights inspired meaningful conversations and personal growth.

🥏 May Winners – 25 Rec Therapy Today frisbees were shipped out just in time for summer fun! Whether used in sessions or shared with friends and family, we hope they’ve brought a little more play into your day.

📦 June Winners – We’re still in the process of selecting winners from our June giveaway. But stay tuned! In July, we’ll be sending out gift packs of activity books to the winners. These handpicked resources are perfect for sparking creativity, boosting engagement, and adding new ideas to your recreational therapy toolbox.

Thanks to everyone who enters and participates—you make our Rec Therapy Today community so vibrant and connected!

Enter the July Giveaway

🎁 July Giveaway – Celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month!

In honor of National Parks and Recreation Month, we’re giving away 5 prize packs that celebrate the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors!

Each prize pack includes:
🌲 A National Parks Coloring Book
🖍️ A set of color markers
🏞️ A unique sheet of National Park-themed circle stickers

Whether you use them for personal relaxation or share them with your clients, these goodies are perfect for promoting creativity, mindfulness, and a love for nature.

🕛 Enter by midnight on July 15th for your chance to win!
No purchase necessary. U.S. entries only.

Let’s celebrate the power of parks, play, and recreation—together!

P.S. Rec Therapy Today — CEU Opportunities