Play is therapy, for all ages.
The Family Treatment Program (FTP) recently held its third annual parent and staff slow-pitch game at Regina’s Central Park. Staff borrowed the bats, balls, and bases from Ehrlo Sport Venture and had childcare available so all parents could play.
The weather was beautiful, and spirits were high as more than two dozen parents, staff, and children took to the diamond on June 24th.
Brett Miller, FTP educational liaison, said the annual event has become a highly anticipated and valuable experience for program participants and staff alike.
“This has become a tradition over the past few years at the FTP and it is always a great opportunity for staff and parents to interact with each other in a fun way and share some laughs,” he said. “Our parent groups shift as we move to more family-focused programming in the summer so it’s a nice way to wrap up those groups and welcome a new season.”
“Sometimes parents can be a little reserved, so when we can engage with them during an activity and provide a space for them to just have fun, we can really see the amazing individuals they are,” he continued. “Opportunities to do this really help build positive relationships with parents which we can take forward in working with them and their families.”
While the game is about having fun and building bonds, Brett said scores are tallied and the parents continue to win each year. Nevertheless, everyone enjoys the day and leaves with a smile on their face.
“All the comments from parents and staff after the event are about how much fun they had, and usually how sore they’ll all be the next day!”
The FTP offers several group sessions to contribute to the health and healing of families in Regina. Parents participate in many structured activities such as a group and individual therapy, while giving time for families to contribute to and engage in their treatment plan with privacy. The group sessions include a parent support group, recovery group, parent education group, horse therapy, 24/7 dad’s group, compassionate parenting, and more.
