Date
Saturday
Feb

February 1-28

National Therapeutic Recreation Month

Get ready to relax and recharge during National Therapeutic Recreation Month - join in on activities like yoga, hiking, and art therapy for a month of self-care!

Yearly Date
February 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate National Therapeutic Recreation Month throughout the entire month of February! This special month recognizes and celebrates the important role that therapeutic recreation plays in improving the lives of individuals with disabilities or other health conditions. Whether it's through sports, leisure activities, or creative arts, therapeutic recreation helps individuals enhance their physical, emotional, and social well-being. So join in on the fun and activities this month as we highlight the positive impacts of therapeutic recreation!

National Therapeutic Recreation Month Timeline

1944
Birth of Recreational Therapy
The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) was founded, promoting the significance of recreational therapy in healthcare.
1952
First Educational Program
The first recreational therapy curriculum was established at the University of Minnesota.
1984
Licensure and Certification
The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) was created to credential recreational therapists.
1990
Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act increased recognition and demand for recreational therapy.
2000s
Growing Acceptance
The 2000s saw a wider acceptance of therapeutic recreation, with increases in both research and practice.
2010
National Therapeutic Recreation Month
National Therapeutic Recreation Month was established to raise awareness and encourage participation in engaging therapeutic activities.

How to Celebrate National Therapeutic Recreation Month

1

Attend a therapeutic recreation event

Look for local events or workshops that are being held in honor of National Therapeutic Recreation Month. Attend one to learn more about the importance and benefits of therapeutic recreation.

2

Volunteer at a recreational therapy program

Contact your local hospitals, nursing homes, or community centers to see if they have any recreational therapy programs that could use some extra help. Spending time volunteering can be a great way to celebrate and give back during this special month.

3

Try a new recreational activity

Take advantage of this month to try out a new recreational activity that you've always been curious about. It could be something as simple as painting, yoga, or hiking. Trying new things can be therapeutic and fun!

4

Share your own story

If you or a loved one has benefited from therapeutic recreation, share your story with others. This can help spread awareness and encourage others to try it out for themselves.

5

Host a therapeutic recreation themed party

Gather friends and family for a fun and educational party celebrating National Therapeutic Recreation Month. Have activities and games that showcase the benefits of therapeutic recreation and raise awareness about the field.

Why National Therapeutic Recreation Month is Important

A

It promotes the importance of leisure activities for overall health and well-being

Therapeutic recreation utilizes recreational activities to improve physical, emotional, and social well-being. National Therapeutic Recreation Month highlights the significant role that leisure and recreation play in rehabilitation and quality of life.

B

It recognizes the hard work and dedication of therapeutic recreation specialists

Therapeutic recreation practitioners are highly skilled professionals who use creative and purposeful intervention techniques to support individuals with disabilities or illnesses. This month is an opportunity to acknowledge their contributions to improving the lives of others.

C

It raises awareness and understanding about the positive impact of therapeutic recreation

Many people may not be aware of the benefits of therapeutic recreation for those with disabilities or illnesses. National Therapeutic Recreation Month helps to educate others about this specialized field and the positive changes it can bring to individuals' lives.

National Therapeutic Recreation Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jan 31
Tuesday
2024
Jan 31
Wednesday
2025
Jan 31
Friday
2026
Jan 31
Saturday
2027
Jan 31
Sunday