Therapeutic Recreation Specialist — Shape Brighter Futures

Children's Center of Hamden Inc.; Hamden (CT); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Life insurance

Disability coverage

EAP and wellness programs

403(b) retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

The Children’s Center of Hamden is seeking a Recreation Specialist to design and facilitate therapeutic recreation for children in a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF). You will lead activities that support emotional regulation, social skills, resilience, and healthy leisure habits, while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

You’ll coordinate individual and group experiences, document progress, supervise approved community outings, and help create a safe, inclusive

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Parks and Recreation, Child Development, Psychology, Education, Human Services, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent experience with children/teens in therapeutic or residential settings may be considered.
• Experience facilitating recreational or therapeutic activities with youth is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and evaluate therapeutic recreation activities aligned with treatment goals.
• Assess children’s interests, strengths, and development needs.
• Facilitate individual, small group, and large group programming.
• Coach Direct Care staff in planning and facilitating Therapeutic Recreation activities.
• Educate staff on the therapeutic purpose of interventions to maximize participation.
• Gather feedback to strengthen future programming.
• Coordinate and supervise approved community outings.
• Maintain accurate record-keeping within established timeframes.
• Maintain supplies, equipment, and program resources.
• Ensure safe, organized, and well‑maintained recreation environments.
• Follow trainings and agency policies to promote a safe therapeutic environment.
• Maintain professional boundaries and an inclusive environment for children and families.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Motivate others

Trauma‑informed care

Education

Recreation Therapy degree

Related field degree

Job description

The Children’s Center of Hamden is seeking a Recreation Specialist to design and facilitate therapeutic recreation for children in a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF). You will lead activities that support emotional regulation, social skills, resilience, and healthy leisure habits, while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

You’ll coordinate individual and group experiences, document progress, supervise approved community outings, and help create a safe, inclusive