Working with Special Needs

Although I have not yet professionally been in the work force, through shadowing I’ve gained insight as to what it’s like to work in a multitude of Recreational Therapy settings. In this post, I’m going to focus on what it’s like to work with Special Needs children, as well as what one should know before doing so. 

This is the area I plan to specialize in as a therapist. Six years ago, my brother was born with Down Syndrome. Prior to his birth, I was fairly uneducated on special education in general, having not been around many individuals with special needs. After his birth, I became very quickly involved working in such a setting. I volunteered at my school and through other organizations to work with Special Needs children. I knew immediately it was what I wanted to commit my life to doing, though I also recognized the large commitment of doing so.

Why is this a large commitment? Well, for starters there are many barriers, both physical and mental, that these patients have to overcome. Each patient has different abilities, and some are more high functioning in recreational activities than others. Some children are initially hesitant to do activities, while others will dive right in. Some don’t understand directions as clearly and others are very precise. Each patient is unique in their level of functioning.

Recreational therapists often work with groups as well, which can make the therapeutic process even more challenging. Children with higher energy will do better at more intense activities, like swimming or running, while others are more physically limited. Therapy is a matter of keeping them all engaged in each activity chosen, and choosing activities that are suitable to everyone’s needs. 

When I first started working with Special Ed, I was surprised at how compliant many of the individuals were. Many are happy doing even the simplest of activities and become very passionate about what they are participating in. Overall, the community is extremely enthusiastic and eager to participate in the vast majority of activities. Therapy is a fantastic outlet for many of these children, while it simultaneously aids in their physical and mental health, encouraging them to expand in knowledge and capability.

The article following article illustrates the demand of therapists working with Special Needs individuals: https://www.specialneeds.com/activities/general-special-needs/what-recreation-therapy

The following video illustrates the benefits of music, one of the many activities potentially utilized by a RT, for special needs children: https://youtu.be/wXcmWwSQGI4