Pediatric Recreational Therapy

SOCI 2200: Pediatric Practice Overview

Week 2 Sequence of Instruction

Introduction to Pediatrics

Pediatrics is a unique field because everyone present can relate to the pediatric population due to their own childhood experiences. It is essential to leverage this shared experience in practice.

Common Pediatric Diagnoses

A comprehensive list of diagnoses encountered in pediatric settings includes:

  • Learning disabilities

  • Cerebral Palsy

  • Muscular Dystrophy (MD)

  • Spina Bifida

  • Speech disorders

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  • Genetic and chromosomal disorders

  • Psychiatric disorders (e.g., ADHD, ASD, eating disorders, depression, suicidal ideation)

  • Diabetes

  • Asthma

  • Cancer

  • Visual and hearing impairments

Notable Diagnoses Explained

  1. Spina Bifida: This is characterized by the incomplete development of the spinal cord, brain, and/or meninges. There are four types of spina bifida, varying in severity. With medical care, approximately 90% of children born with spina bifida can expect a normal lifespan.

  2. Speech Disorders: These encompass communication disorders, including stuttering and impairments in articulation, language, or voice that adversely impact a child's educational performance.

  3. Genetic and Chromosomal Disorders: For example, Down Syndrome significantly affects how a child's brain and body develop. Children diagnosed with Down syndrome can lead happy and fulfilling lives with appropriate support. Physical markers include a flat facial profile, upward slant to the eyes, and low muscle tone, among others. Early intervention services such as PT, OT, and RT are beneficial.

Psychiatric Disorders in Children

  • ADHD: Characterized by difficulties with attention and impulsivity.

  • Self-Harm: This behavior presents serious public health concerns, highlighting the need for recreational therapists to introduce positive coping strategies, particularly among adolescents.

  • Psychosocial Impact of Abuse and Neglect: Such trauma can lead to anxiety, depression, and chronic health issues later in life.

  • Eating Disorders: Most commonly develop during adolescence, with individuals being preoccupied with body image.

Diabetes in Children

Diabetes is categorized into two types:

  1. Type 1 Diabetes: Known as juvenile diabetes, where the body fails to produce insulin. It affects approximately 150,000 youth under 18 years of age, equating to about 1 in every 400 to 500 youths.

  2. Type 2 Diabetes: Commonly arises due to poor nutrition and obesity and can often be managed through lifestyle modifications.

Obesity as a Pediatric Concern

Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex in children aged 2 years and older. Contributing factors typically include inadequate physical activity and excessive caloric intake, which can impact physical and emotional well-being.

Cancer in Pediatric Populations

Cancer remains the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 14 since 2000. The necessity for psychosocial interventions by recreational therapists is crucial in addressing long-term concerns and enhancing life satisfaction, especially amidst physical challenges like lowered immunity and fatigue.

Childhood Development and the 5 F's

The 5 F's of Childhood Development are essential components:

  1. Functioning

  2. Fitness

  3. Fun

  4. Friends

  5. Family

F-Words for Child Development

The F-Words emphasizes a family-centered, strengths-based, holistic approach to child health and development. Key definitions include:

  • Functioning: Refers to behavioral actions taken by a child, where the process is less crucial than the outcomes.

  • Fitness: Pertains to both physical and mental well-being.

  • Fun: Involves enjoyable activities.

  • Friends: Covers social interactions and relationships.

  • Family: Encompasses the supportive environment crucial for healthy child development.

The ICF Framework and F-Words

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework alongside the F-Words provides a structure for addressing child development holistically. Elements include:

  • Body Structure and Function

  • Activity

  • Participation

Key Statements Related to Childhood Development:

  • Staying fit and healthy is essential.

  • Functioning may vary but should still be encouraged.

  • Friendships must be facilitated through opportunities.

  • Family involvement is vital; they know the child best.

  • Fun is the basis for engagement in activities.

Developmental Needs by Age

Physical Development Needs

  • Younger Kids (Ages 5-11): Engage in free play, running, jumping, age-appropriate sports.

  • Adolescents (Ages 12-17): Participation extends to resistance training, plyometrics, and various sports.

  • Commonalities between both age groups emphasize fun and enjoyment as fundamental elements in physical activities.

Mental Development Needs

  • Younger Kids (5-11): Practice skills, basic math, creative skills in reading, writing, and drawing.

  • Adolescents (12-17): Develop higher cognitive skills, independence, and understanding of interpersonal relationships.

Purpose of Recreation Therapy

Recreational therapy serves multiple purposes, such as:

  • Developing psychosocial coping skills.

  • Teaching healthy leisure practices that mitigate substance abuse.

  • Fostering social skills that lead to friendships.

  • Identifying adaptive techniques for increased physical activity.

  • Promoting a balanced lifestyle.

Common Settings for Recreational Therapy

  • Pediatric Behavioral Health Programs

  • Youth transitions programs

  • School-based programs

  • Outdoor recreation therapy

  • Medical camps

  • Children's hospitals

  • Equine-assisted therapy programs

  • Community recreation centers

  • Outpatient programs

  • Afterschool programs

Best Practices and Skills to Work with Children in Recreational Therapy

Best Practices Include:

  • Pediatric behavioral programs

  • Adapted sports for inclusivity and skill development.

Key Skills Needed:

  • Compassion, empathy, and patience.

  • Creativity and enthusiasm to engage with children.

  • Effective communication and organization abilities.

  • Ability to manage emotional responses and maintain approachability.

Addressing Current Trends and Issues in Pediatric Settings

  1. Learned Helplessness: A phenomenon where individuals become passive after repeated exposure to uncontrollable situations.

  2. Family Context in Treatment: The importance of understanding family dynamics, emotional pressures, and support systems.

  3. Health and Social Disparities: Awareness of inequities affecting pediatric populations.

  4. Impact of Social Media: Addressing influences on identity and development.

  5. Pediatric Mental Health Issues: Growing concerns requiring attention from recreational therapists.

Other Considerations

Parent Involvement

  • Parents play a significant role by leading active lifestyles and encouraging physical activity in children.

Family Situation

  • Family support, emotional backing, and financial considerations can greatly influence a child's access to recreational activities.

Socioeconomic Factors

  • Accessibility of resources and programs can vary significantly based on the socioeconomic status of families.

Application of the Recreational Therapy Process

Steps in the Recreational Therapy Process:

  1. Assessment

  2. Planning

  3. Implementation

  4. Evaluation

  5. Documentation

Example Case Study: Emily

Emily is a 13-year-old diagnosed with spina bifida, living in a supportive yet overprotective familial environment. Upon assessment, Emily showed limited motivation for engagement in physical activity. Goals for her recreational plan include boosting her intrinsic motivation and enhancing her community engagement through adapted sports and various recreational activities. Evaluation will focus on her social interaction and overall engagement.

Relevant Literature

Caldwell and Witt's research explores the connections between leisure participation and key developmental outcomes such as identity formation and the risks associated with inadequate access to positive recreational activities.

Upcoming Assignments

Discussion Post #1 is due on Sunday, contributing to 10% of the final grade, based on content from Lecture 1.

Questions

Students are encouraged to ask questions for clarity on discussed topics at the end of the session.

Closing

Wishing all participants a great remainder of the day!