Recreation Introduction Recreation is an important part of the program at the DCCH. It is during recreational activities that children have fun, improve a dysfunctional area, treat a problematic behavior, and/or enhance an existing skill or competency in an appropriate, safe and healthy manner. Recreational activities help a child develop athletic skills, which increases endurance, coordination, self-esteem, and teamwork. Recreation can also broaden the child's interests and provide a diversion from their problems and anxieties. Children are also given the opportunity to participate in a wide array of special programs throughout each week, such as fitness clubs, cub scouts and a theater group that trains kids in the finer arts of “clowning” and performing! Organized soccer and baseball teams are also a part of the program. Recreation can be very therapeutic on many levels for a child. Scoring and Goals System While a child is on recreation, he/she will be scored on his/her participation and behavior. The score is based on an average and a goal system. The average corresponds to a particular goal as defined in the child’s treatment plan (i.e., attitude, cooperation, etc.) The Recreation worker and the Director of Recreation determine each child’s goal. The goals are set with the child’s needs in mind, as assessed at intake. A score sheet is used to keep track of the child's score for each day of the month. At the end of the month, the child’s scores are averaged and logged on their individual treatment plans. Then the child can use their score earned during recreation to purchase incentives from the Home’s store. Every child earns a prize from the store; there are four levels the child can earn from based on their score. Additional activities and competitions may be offered through out the month to give the children more opportunities to be successful and “bump-up” their averages. Goals To better help the children with their behaviors the recreation staff develop a goal for each child to work on. The goal targets behaviors that the child needs to work on specifically for recreation. Conclusion Recreation is an integral part of the treatment of the Diocesan Catholic Children's Home. The children are given opportunities to release tension, learn new games, and excel in physical sports. This enables the children to adjust socially and develop controls of their own. Recreation also boosts a child's self-esteem. Confidence in oneself is essential to growth. Examples such as learning to ride a bike or learning how to swim are very important to the child. The children are encouraged to try different activities so they will develop greater interests. A positive self-image is essential for all children. Children are challenged and given the chance to use their creativity to expand their knowledge of the world around them.  Ideally, our children are taught how to develop internal controls and how to handle situations on their own. Recreation gives the children goals to obtain which, in turn, will better prepare them to handle problems. Recreation offers social, emotional and physical outlets in a positive manner. Any further questions you may have on the recreation program, can be answered by: John Carney 859/331-2040 ext. 244 jcarney at DCCHome dot org