Programs and Services | Recreation Therapy Program

The Music and Recreation Therapy Programs available at the San Diego Center for Children are two of the most important healing services.

Meet Michaela, a client at the San Diego Center for Children.

Michaela screamed profanities at a fellow client and lunged for a Child Development Counselor, barely missing her. “Forget all of you! You don’t really care about me!” she screamed bursting into tears, slamming her bedroom door.

Despite dealing with her past experiences on a daily basis, Michaela transforms into a ‘different’ young women when on the softball field. Still loud, she is no longer yelling profanities, but instead screams encouraging words to her teammates. Still aggressive, she no longer spits at or hits others; she has a strong swing and almost always gets on base.

This positive affect of the Recreation Therapy Program is very common. When children are given a healthy outlet for their frustration, anger, and sadness, it brings about self-reflection and provides additional skills needed to communicate constructively. Team sports give the children a place to bond with peers and learn how to interact well with others. The Center offers softball, basketball, flag football, golf, and running programs, in addition to Girl Scouts, art therapy, student businesses, and Life Skills class.