Where Play Has Purpose and Every Step Counts
It’s a Wednesday afternoon at LifeLab Kids. The gym echoes with laughter as one of our kids finally pedals her bike across the room, no training wheels this time. Her therapist, cheers. She beams. What looks like play is actually progress which is built on confidence, coordination, and courage.
This is what Recreational Therapy looks like in action, where play becomes a path to growth. Every game, every dance, every high-five is designed to strengthen the body, the mind, and the heart.
- Through group play, children learn to communicate and cooperate.
- Through movement, they build balance and focus.
- Through laughter, they learn to manage emotions and celebrate small wins.
At LifeLab Kids, play-based learning connects with every other therapy: ABA, Speech, Occupational, Art, and Music, creating a complete circle of care. Whether a child is passing a ball, painting a dream, or climbing our rock wall, each joyful moment helps them discover their own rhythm of learning.
October has been a month filled with energy, joy, and new milestones here at LifeLab Kids. From families cheering at the Detroit Marathon to kids cheering each other on in therapy sessions, we’ve seen the same spirit, that is determination, connection, and community.
At LifeLab Kids, we believe growth happens everywhere: in the classroom, on the playground, in music and art, and through everyday experiences that build confidence and independence. Every smile, every new word, every “I can do it!” moment reminds us why we do what we do.
– Katelyn Petersen
As a Recreational Therapist I get to indulge in every child’s favorite thing – PLAY! While it may seem like just fun & games on the outside what is really happening is utilizing purposeful play, along with leisure & recreational based interventions to address therapeutic goals and outcomes all aimed at breaking down barriers, building up skills, boosting confidence and improving one’s overall quality of life and well-being. The goals that can be addressed in recreational therapy are vast and fall under one or more of the following categories: social, emotional, cognitive, and physical areas of functioning.
– Erin Gilleran
Try This at Home
Bring a little joy into your routine:
- Dance together: Let your child lead the moves.
- Create art: Focus on fun, not perfection.
- Build a pillow obstacle course: Celebrate every finish line.
Simple play can strengthen bonds and boost confidence every day.
Detroit Marathon Participation
This October, LifeLab Kids participated in the Detroit Free Press Marathon, a testament to our commitment to fostering movement, resilience, and inclusion. This experience not only promoted physical activity but also emphasized the importance of setting goals and achieving them, reflecting our holistic approach to therapy and development.
As autumn fills the air, we’re reminded that change can be beautiful, especially when it comes from within. Here’s to every child discovering their strength, one joyful step at a time.
Come visit LifeLab Kids and experience the joy of learning in action.
“The magic of growth through play.”
