Recreation Therapy

The recreation therapy team at CHEO uses recreation and leisure activities to support children and youth (age 6 - 18) with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities and autism. Recreation therapy gives leisure opportunities to children and youth who can't access recreation in the community.

We work with children, youth and their families to identify and reach their recreation and leisure goals. We focus on a client's strengths, enhancing the skills they already have while helping develop new skills. We provide a safe and supportive environment where our clients can build their confidence in:

• sports and physical activity
• social integration
• life skills
• arts

Most of our programming takes place in the community, giving children and youth real-world community recreation experience. We also work with community partners to support and educate them on how to best work with individuals with disabilities.

Past programs include:

• cross country skiing
• teen night socials
• wheelchair basketball
• drama club
• rock climbing

Program eligibility

We support clients between the ages of 6 and 18. Our clients must have recreation therapy goals and a barrier that prevents them from accessing recreation in the community. They must be able to communicate their wants and needs independently, and have no significant behavioural needs. We are not able to accept clients that require 1-on-1 support.

Intake process

Please send in your referral to the CHEO Access Team.

For more information and to determine your eligibility for Recreation Therapy, please contact the CHEO Access Team at 613-737-2757.