Do You Need Rec Therapy CEUs?

Rec Therapy Today — TRUSTED by Rec Therapists Everywhere

Why Rec Therapy Today? 

Testimonials 

Here is the Course for these Testimonials:

Self-Study CEU Bundle Opportunities

Giving Back to Our Profession: Why Rec Therapy Today Sponsors ATRA

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

I still remember my first ATRA Conference — Kansas City, 2004. It was the 20th anniversary of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association, and I attended as a Peg Connolly Student Scholar, an honor named after ATRA’s very first president. That experience changed everything for me. I met mentors, built lifelong connections, and saw firsthand what it means to be part of a community that truly believes in the power of recreation to heal and inspire. I’ll never forget when Charlie Dixon’s RT/TR Directory received the organizational award that year — a reminder that one person’s vision can help connect an entire profession.

 At Rec Therapy Today, we believe in supporting the organizations that strengthen and advance our profession. That’s why we’re proud to sponsor the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) and its annual conference — including this year’s 2025 ATRA Awards Ceremony in San Antonio, Texas.

Sponsoring ATRA isn’t just about logos or recognition. It’s about giving back to the field that has given so much to all of us. For decades, ATRA has been the unifying voice of recreational therapists — advocating for our profession, promoting best practices, and inspiring excellence in care. By contributing to ATRA events, Rec Therapy Today helps ensure that the next generation of professionals continues to grow, connect, and thrive.

We’re especially proud to support this year’s Awards Ceremony, celebrating the outstanding professionals, educators, and advocates who represent the very best of therapeutic recreation. These honorees remind us that our work is more than a career — it’s a calling to help people heal, connect, and live fuller lives through recreation.

Every year, ATRA’s conference renews our sense of purpose. It reminds us why continuing education, collaboration, and advocacy matter. Sponsorship allows Rec Therapy Today to be part of that mission — not from the sidelines, but right in the heart of the profession. 

We’re grateful for the opportunity to give back, to celebrate the people who put the RT in Heart, and to help keep recreational therapy moving forward.

Thank you, ATRA, for empowering recreational therapists everywhere — and thank you to every CTRS who continues to make a difference every single day.

We invite all recreation therapists to support ATRA and help strengthen our profession together. You can join our association here:

https://www.atra-online.com/join-now

ATRA Disclaimer:
Danny Pettry is not an official spokesperson for ATRA or a member of the ATRA Board of Directors. He is a lifetime member of the association who encourages all recreational therapists to become members of ATRA.

Inspiration for the Month

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

Leftover Halloween Candy – Humor for the Month

Infographics for the Month

Holidays and Observations

🎯 Monthly Observances (full-month)

• National Diabetes Month

• Lung Cancer Awareness Month

• Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

• Family Caregivers Month

• Native American Heritage Month (also called American Indian & Alaska Native Heritage Month)

• Movember (Men’s Health)

• World Vegan Month

• National Home Care & Hospice Month

• National Healthy Skin Month

• (And several more themed months: e.g., National Marrow Awareness, etc.)

🗓 Selected Significant Dates & Holidays

• Sunday, November 2 – Daylight Saving Time Ends

• Tuesday, November 11 – Veterans Day (U.S. Federal Holiday)

• Thursday, November 27 – Thanksgiving Day (U.S.)

• Friday, November 28 – Black Friday (retail/shopping observance)

Get Your 2025 Planner

A 2026 Planner Designed Specifically for Life Enrichment Professionals

Looking for a planning tool created just for Activity and Life Enrichment Professionals? The 2026 Activity Professional Planner was designed by Karina Stickle, Recreation Therapist and founder of Engaged in Rec. Now in its 3rd year, this planner was built with the tools and layouts Activity Professionals have always wished they had in one place.

This planner goes beyond calendars — it includes practical resources to support monthly planning, organization, communication, program inspiration, and confidence throughout the year.

Take a flip-through of the inside here:

https://online.flippingbook.com/view/467753125/ 

The 2026 edition is available in both a perfect-bound version and a new spiral lay-flat format. Custom branded covers are also available for organizations.

More details and ordering options:
https://linktr.ee/engagedinrec

Rec Therapy Today — CEU Reminders:

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

Activity Ideas for the Month

🍁 1. Gratitude Tree

Supplies Needed: Construction paper, scissors, markers, tape or poster board, paper leaves.
Instructions:
Have participants write something they are grateful for on a paper leaf and attach it to a large “tree” trunk on the wall or bulletin board. Reflect together at the end.
Benefits:

• Social: Encourages group sharing and positive interaction.

• Emotional: Promotes gratitude and optimism.

• Cognitive: Encourages reflection and memory recall.

• Leisure: Encourages creative expression.

• Independence: Participants express personal values autonomously.

🦃 2. Thanksgiving Recipe Remix

Supplies Needed: Recipe cards, magazines, glue sticks, scissors, poster board.
Instructions:
Ask participants to design a “healthy twist” on a favorite Thanksgiving recipe. They can cut out images, list ingredients, and share with the group.
Benefits:

• Social: Promotes group discussion and humor.

• Physical: Fine motor coordination (cutting, pasting).

• Cognitive: Decision-making, sequencing, planning.

• Leisure: Encourages cooking and creative leisure skills.

• Independence: Promotes self-expression and personal choice.

🎨 3. Fall Leaf Art Collage

Supplies Needed: Real or artificial leaves, glue, canvas or paper, paint brushes, paint.
Instructions:
Collect leaves outdoors or use craft leaves to create textured art. Discuss color, pattern, and shape while painting.
Benefits:

• Social: Cooperative sharing of materials.

• Physical: Fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination.

• Emotional: Relaxation and stress reduction.

• Cognitive: Stimulates creativity and visual processing.

• Leisure: Encourages exploration of art as a leisure outlet.

🎯 4. Turkey Trot Relay

Supplies Needed: Cones, bean bags, small pumpkins, or themed objects.
Instructions:
Set up a relay course where participants race (or walk) to retrieve “turkey feathers” or themed items. Can be adapted for wheelchair users.
Benefits:

• Social: Team collaboration.

• Physical: Cardiovascular exercise and coordination.

• Emotional: Builds enthusiasm and positive energy.

• Cognitive: Strategy and sequencing.

• Leisure: Introduces exercise as play.

• Independence: Encourages personal effort within abilities.

🧠 5. Thankful Trivia

Supplies Needed: Trivia cards (create ahead of time), whiteboard, markers, optional small prizes.
Instructions:
Ask Thanksgiving, autumn, and gratitude-related trivia questions. Include fun facts about traditions and gratitude research.
Benefits:

• Social: Friendly competition and group laughter.

• Cognitive: Enhances recall and learning.

• Emotional: Boosts self-esteem through participation.

• Leisure: Introduces new knowledge in a fun way.

• Independence: Encourages self-expression and choice-making.

☕ 6. Warm Beverage Social

Supplies Needed: Hot chocolate, tea, coffee, mugs, napkins, autumn music playlist.
Instructions:
Host a cozy group social. Encourage participants to share a favorite fall memory or what they’re thankful for this season.
Benefits:

• Social: Builds belonging and conversation.

• Emotional: Comfort and emotional connection.

• Leisure: Promotes relaxation as recreation.

• Independence: Allows personal drink and sharing choices.

📸 7. Autumn Nature Photo Walk

Supplies Needed: Cameras or smartphones, nature trail or outdoor space, clipboard for checklist.
Instructions:
Take a mindful walk outdoors, encouraging participants to notice colors, textures, and shapes. Take photos or collect small natural items.
Benefits:

• Social: Shared group experience.

• Physical: Walking promotes mobility and health.

• Emotional: Reduces stress and promotes calmness.

• Cognitive: Encourages observation and mindfulness.

• Leisure: Develops photography and nature appreciation.

• Independence: Encourages self-paced engagement.

🧩 8. Acts of Kindness Challenge

Supplies Needed: Paper, pen, kindness checklist poster, stickers.
Instructions:
Create a board listing simple acts of kindness (compliments, helping others, writing thank-you notes). Track group progress throughout the month.
Benefits:

• Social: Builds empathy and connection.

• Emotional: Promotes positive mood and meaning.

• Cognitive: Encourages reflection and planning.

• Leisure: Encourages service as a meaningful activity.

• Independence: Empowers self-initiated good deeds.

🧶 9. Cozy Craft Corner

Supplies Needed: Yarn, fabric scraps, beads, or easy DIY craft kits.
Instructions:
Offer a variety of small crafts (friendship bracelets, bookmarks, ornaments). Encourage creativity and sharing finished pieces.
Benefits:

• Social: Builds friendships and conversation.

• Physical: Fine motor coordination.

• Emotional: Increases calmness and pride in work.

• Cognitive: Improves focus and sequencing.

• Leisure: Introduces crafting as lifelong leisure skill.

• Independence: Fosters self-directed creativity.

📬 10. Gratitude Letters to Staff or Family

Supplies Needed: Stationery, pens, envelopes, stickers.
Instructions:
Invite participants to write thank-you notes to someone who has positively impacted them. Encourage sharing aloud if comfortable.
Benefits:

• Social: Builds positive relationships.

• Emotional: Enhances empathy and happiness.

• Cognitive: Strengthens written communication.

• Leisure: Uses writing as a form of creative expression.

• Independence: Encourages self-initiated expression of gratitude.

Featured Article of the Month

💖 Compassion in Action: How Recreational Therapists Give Back

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

November is a season of gratitude — a time to reflect on the people and moments that fill our lives with purpose. For recreational therapists, gratitude often turns into action. Across the country, many RTs give back to their communities through volunteering, mentoring, and acts of kindness that ripple far beyond the treatment setting.

🌟 Real Examples of Service and Heart

Recreational therapists are natural helpers. Their work already centers on helping others grow, heal, and reconnect with life’s joys. But many RTs go even further by volunteering their time and skills outside their regular jobs.

• Some lead free community fitness or art classes for seniors.

• Others organize toy drives, food collections, or blanket donations during the holidays.

• Many mentor students or new professionals, offering encouragement and career guidance.

• Some volunteer at adaptive sports events, Special Olympics programs, or veterans’ centers.

Every small act of giving makes a difference — and when done collectively, it shines a bright light on the heart of our profession.

💬 Why Giving Back Strengthens the Therapeutic Relationship

When recreational therapists model generosity and compassion, it creates a powerful ripple effect. Clients notice when their therapist serves others with joy and sincerity. It reinforces the message that healing and happiness grow when we contribute to something larger than ourselves.

Giving back also refuels the therapist’s own sense of purpose. It reminds us why we entered this field — to make lives brighter through leisure, connection, and care. By volunteering or mentoring, RTs stay grounded in empathy and build resilience against burnout.

In a way, giving back is therapeutic reciprocity — it helps both the giver and the receiver.

💡 How to Lead a “Give Back Day” at Your Facility

You don’t need a large budget or complex plan to start. A “Give Back Day” can be simple, fun, and meaningful. Here are some ideas:

• Gratitude Cards: Have clients and staff write thank-you notes to nurses, housekeeping, or cafeteria teams.

• Community Service Projects: Organize a group to collect hygiene kits, pet supplies, or winter clothing for local charities.

• Mentorship Moments: Pair seasoned therapists with new graduates or students for a one-hour mentorship chat.

• Kindness Challenge: Post a kindness calendar and track small acts of giving throughout the month.

• Volunteer Outing: If possible, take clients to volunteer together — like visiting an animal shelter or helping at a community garden.

Each of these activities builds teamwork, empathy, and shared pride in giving.

🌻 A Season to Reflect and Appreciate

This November, take time to reflect on how you give back — both inside and outside your professional role. Whether it’s mentoring a student, organizing a food drive, or simply encouraging a colleague, your compassion matters.

As recreational therapists, we don’t just talk about improving well-being — we live it. Through generosity, kindness, and action, we help build stronger, more connected communities.

So this Thanksgiving season, let’s celebrate not just what we have, but how much we can give.

Book of the Month

November 2025 Book of the Month

The Extraordinary Power of Kindness

By Bill Schieblier

In a world that can often feel hurried and divided, The Extraordinary Power of Kindness reminds readers that one simple act of caring can create profound ripples of healing. Through heartfelt true stories, Bill Schieblier shares moments where compassion, empathy, and understanding transformed ordinary interactions into extraordinary experiences. Each story captures how small gestures—listening, helping, or showing appreciation—can touch lives in ways we might never fully see.

This inspiring collection invites readers to pause, reflect, and rediscover the everyday power of kindness. The book celebrates human connection and reminds us that kindness is not weakness—it’s strength in action.

💖 Why Recreational Therapists Will Love This Book

Recreational therapists live at the intersection of compassion and connection. Every day, they use empathy, creativity, and leisure to bring light into others’ lives. The Extraordinary Power of Kindness reinforces the heart of what RTs do—it’s a celebration of service, humanity, and the belief that kindness heals.

Reading this book can:

• Inspire new ways to weave empathy into your sessions.

• Encourage reflection on the impact of your work.

• Serve as a gentle reminder that your kindness matters.

This November, as we focus on gratitude and giving back, this book offers the perfect companion for reflection and renewal.

Recommendation:
Read a short story each week and discuss it with your coworkers or clients as a group reflection or journaling activity.

Get the book here:

Game of the Month

🎲 Game of the Month

Pun Intended: Crack the Picture Code!

Ages: 10+  Players: 2–10  Playtime: About 20–30 minutes

If laughter is the best medicine, then Pun Intended might just be the perfect prescription! This clever, fast-paced word game challenges players to guess, create, or recognize puns based on silly phrases, pictures, and clues. It’s lighthearted, witty, and guaranteed to bring groans and giggles in equal measure.

💡 How to Play

Players take turns giving clues or answering pun-based prompts—think “Salad Dressing,” “Reading Glasses,” or “Cereal Killer.” The goal is to earn points for correct guesses while keeping the energy high and the humor flowing.

You can play individually or in teams, making it a flexible choice for both large and small groups.

❤️ Why Recreational Therapists Will Love It

Pun Intended is a fun, social game that sparks laughter and wordplay—perfect for promoting connection, cognition, and emotional wellness. It’s easy to adapt for clients of different ability levels and can be used in both group and one-on-one sessions.

Therapeutic Benefits:

• Social: Builds teamwork, communication, and group bonding.

• Cognitive: Strengthens word recall, creative thinking, and language processing.

• Emotional: Promotes joy, humor, and stress relief.

• Leisure: Encourages playful participation and positive interaction.

🧠 Therapist Tip:

Start each session by inviting participants to make up their own puns related to a theme—like gratitude, kindness, or leisure. It’s a fun icebreaker that gets everyone smiling and thinking creatively!

Rec Therapist of the Month

Lori Koplin, M.S., CTRS, CPRP

🌟 Recreational Therapist of the Month: Lori Koplin, M.S., CTRS, CPRP

Ormond Beach, Florida

This month, Rec Therapy Today proudly shines the spotlight on Lori Koplin, a compassionate and creative recreational therapist whose dedication to inclusion, empowerment, and community connection truly embodies the heart of our profession.

🎓 Education and Credentials

Lori earned both her B.S. and M.S. in Sport and Recreation Management (Therapeutic Recreation) from Florida International University in Miami, Florida (2022 and 2023).
She is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP). Lori is an active member of both ATRA (American Therapeutic Recreation Association) and FRPA (Florida Recreation and Park Association).

🏆 Achievements and Recognition

Lori’s programs have consistently earned recognition for excellence, innovation, and inclusion from the Florida Festivals & Events Association (FFEA):

• 🥈 Shining Stars Pageant – 2nd Place Community Outreach Program (2022)

• 🥇 Pickle Squad – 1st Place DEI Program Initiative (2023)

• 🥉 Project Squad – 3rd Place DEI Program (2024)

• 🥈 Bicycle Buddies – 2nd Place DEI Program (2025)
  She was also honored with the Marica Carter Best Paper Award for her outstanding contributions to the field.

💬 Her Journey in Recreational Therapy

When asked why she became a recreational therapist, Lori shared,

“The profession found me. I have grown to love it because I get to watch my participants become awesome people.”

Working in a community setting, Lori provides recreational therapy for all ages with a focus on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her programs include physical activities, creative arts, social and cognitive games, and community integration — all designed to promote growth, teamwork, and self-discovery.

❤️ Lori’s Philosophy and Advice

Lori believes that recreational therapy is about connection:

“I like to watch my participants complete a challenge together while they learn their strengths and work through their weaknesses.”

Her advice to new professionals beautifully reflects her empathy and experience:

“Get to know your clients by learning about their lives outside of your programs. Learn to listen to what they have to say — even the ones who cannot speak to you. They have a lot to say.”

🌍 Looking Ahead

Lori envisions the future of recreational therapy as more community-based, encouraging therapists to integrate their services into everyday life so that clients can develop transferable skills and confidence beyond the program setting.

She draws inspiration from Tania Santiago Perez, whom she admires for teaching future CTRSs with care, compassion, and dedication to professional growth.

☀️ A Lifelong Learner

When asked what she enjoys most about Rec Therapy Today, Lori shared:

“The different CEU opportunities! I like learning about different rec therapy settings.”

Lori’s passion for professional growth, creativity, and inclusive programming makes her a shining example of how compassion truly fuels the power of recreation.

Congratulations, Lori, and thank you for all you do to make your community brighter through recreational therapy!

Danny Pettry’s Corner

Finding Gratitude Between the Pages

This time of year always reminds me to slow down and appreciate the simple joys — a warm cup of coffee, a good book, and a quiet moment to reflect. I’ve always loved bookstores. There’s something magical about walking through aisles filled with stories and ideas waiting to be discovered.

Books remind me of why I love what I do in recreational therapy — every story is about growth, resilience, and transformation. It’s the same journey I see every day in the people we serve.

As we head into the holiday season, I’m feeling thankful — for the Rec Therapy Today community, for the chance to keep learning, and for everyone out there helping others find healing and hope through recreation and connection.

So here’s to good books, meaningful work, and moments that make us pause and smile.

– Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., LPC, CTRS
Founder, Rec Therapy Today

Recent Blogposts 

Recent Posts

• Stand Up for Our Field: Advocating for RT & Joining ATRA
• More Than Money: The Hidden Rewards of Being a Recreational Therapist
• Grow Through What You Go Through: Dweck’s Growth Mindset in RT
• Why Grit Matters: Lessons from Angela Duckworth for Rec Therapists
• Keep Learning, Keep Growing: How Self-Study Fuels Professional Renewal
• The Heart Behind the Job: Appreciating Recreational Therapists Everywhere
• Leisure Lessons: The Power of Play in Counseling and Growth
• Positivity That Sticks: How to Apply Positive Psychology in Rec Therapy
• Mindfulness for Every Moment: Small Habits That Change Big Feelings
• Falling for Self-Care: How Autumn Can Help You Slow Down and Heal
• Giving Back to Our Profession: Why Rec Therapy Today Sponsors ATRA
• Promoting Healthy Body Image and Self-Esteem Through Recreational Therapy
• Preserving Memories and Dignity: Recreational Therapy for Clients with Dementia
• Channeling Energy into Focus: Recreational Therapy with Clients Who Have ADHD
• Creating Inclusive and Sensory-Friendly Recreation for Clients with Autism
• Recreation as Recovery: How RTs Can Support Clients with Substance Use Disorders
• Building Structure and Connection: Recreational Therapy for Clients with Schizophrenia
• Balancing Recreation for Clients with Bipolar Disorder: Tools for Stability and Self-Expression
• Creating Trauma-Informed Recreation: Practical Approaches for RTs Supporting Clients with PTSD
• Turning Anxiety Into Calm: How Recreational Therapists Can Create Safe Spaces

Recent Rec Therapy YouTube Videos 

Fun Pages for All Ages

(Print for your Clients) 

Featured Winner: 

Brandy B. 

Enter the November Giveaway

November 2025 Giveaway

This month, we’re giving away nine (9)  $10 Amazon Gift Cards!

• No purchase required

• Anyone can enter

• Deadline: Entries must be received before midnight Nov 10th, 2025

Winners will be selected at random after the deadline.

👉 Don’t miss your chance—enter today!

P.S. Rec Therapy Today — CEU Opportunities