In 2025, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) commemorates the remarkable 20-year journey of its Therapeutic Recreation program. This initiative has been instrumental in offering a wide array of enriching activities to hundreds of participants annually. The program encompasses diverse offerings such as supper clubs, crafting sessions, fitness programs, hiking excursions, adaptive sports, parents’ nights out, movie screenings, dances, cooking classes, field trips, camps, and much more. Situated at Murphy-Oakley Community Center, home to the city’s pioneering all-abilities playground, this program exemplifies inclusivity and innovation.

The concept of Therapeutic Recreation (TR) revolves around utilizing structured recreational activities to address the needs of individuals facing illnesses or disabilities. TR aims to promote psychological and physical health, foster recovery, enhance inclusion, and improve overall well-being. Recreational therapy, a key component of TR, focuses on restoring, remedying, and rehabilitating an individual's functional abilities and independence. It also promotes health and wellness while reducing activity limitations caused by illness or disability. February is dedicated to highlighting how TR can significantly enhance quality of life and combat loneliness and isolation.

Enhancing Quality of Life Through Structured Activities

The APR Therapeutic Recreation program offers a comprehensive range of activities designed to cater to various interests and abilities. These activities are meticulously planned to provide both enjoyment and therapeutic benefits. Participants engage in events that not only entertain but also contribute to their personal growth and development. The program's diverse offerings ensure that everyone can find something that resonates with them, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Therapeutic Recreation (TR) serves as a powerful tool for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. By engaging in carefully curated activities, participants can experience improvements in their physical and mental health. For instance, TR Baseball, offered in collaboration with local baseball teams, provides a non-competitive environment where participants learn the basics of baseball while having fun. Similarly, TR Adult Crafting sessions offer creative outlets through projects like faux stained glass, milk jug igloos, Mardi Gras masks, and bubble painting. These activities stimulate creativity and provide a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, TR Adult Morning Movement encourages active participation in games and sports adapted to accommodate all skill levels, promoting physical fitness and social interaction. TR After Dark events, held monthly, provide opportunities for participants to enjoy themed activities such as Sweetheart Dance, Laser Tag, and Movie Night, allowing them to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships.

Promoting Inclusivity and Accessibility

APR's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its efforts to make activities accessible to all participants. The program offers various outings, including walking and hiking excursions, ensuring that everyone can participate regardless of their physical limitations. Transportation is provided from Murphy-Oakley Community Center to the event locations, making it convenient for participants to join. These outdoor activities provide fresh air and scenic views, contributing to mental well-being and physical health.

The TR Walking events, scheduled for March 10, April 7, and May 5, take place along fully accessible paths, ensuring that all participants can comfortably walk one mile or less. Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch, water bottle, and comfortable clothing. Similarly, TR Hiking events, held on March 6, April 4, and May 1, offer trails between 1-2.5 miles on variable terrain. These hikes provide a chance for participants to explore nature while enjoying the support of experienced guides. The all-abilities playground at Murphy-Oakley Community Center further underscores APR's dedication to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. By offering these diverse and accessible activities, APR ensures that individuals of all abilities can enjoy high-quality recreational experiences, leading to enhanced well-being and a greater sense of community.

In today's fast-paced world, many working parents find it challenging to balance professional responsibilities and family life. The struggle often leaves parents feeling stretched thin and disconnected from their children. However, experts emphasize that the quality of time spent together is more important than quantity. By focusing on meaningful interactions, even brief moments can significantly strengthen family bonds. This article explores ten practical strategies that can help working parents connect deeply with their children without adding stress to an already hectic schedule.

A Closer Look at Strengthening Family Connections

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding quality time with children has become increasingly difficult. Many parents juggle work commitments, school activities, and household chores, leaving little room for meaningful connections. Amber Diamond-Green, a mental health therapist and Clinical Health Director at Mathews Counseling in North Carolina, highlights the importance of making the most of every moment. Whether it’s during car rides, family meals, or bedtime routines, these everyday situations offer valuable opportunities to foster deeper relationships with children.

The article delves into ten specific methods to enhance parent-child bonding:

• Engage in meaningful conversations: Use commute times to ask open-ended questions about your child's day, fostering a deeper understanding of their experiences.
• Prioritize family meals: Even if only once or twice a week, gathering around the table provides a special time to reconnect and share stories.
• Participate in fun activities: From board games to family walks, shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.
• Enhance bedtime routines: Turn nightly rituals into moments of connection by discussing favorite parts of the day and expressing gratitude.
• Designate protected family time: Set aside a weekly "family day" free from other commitments to focus solely on each other.
• Embrace slow parenting: Allow for downtime and reduce over-scheduling to prioritize quality family moments.
• Give full attention: Carve out undistracted time to truly listen and engage with your child, even if just for a few minutes.
• Avoid work calls at home: Delay business matters to ensure family time is prioritized upon arrival.
• Enjoy outdoor walks: Walking together in nature offers a peaceful setting for meaningful conversations and relaxation.
• Schedule one-on-one time: Spend individual time with each child to understand their unique needs and build trust.

By implementing these strategies, working parents can create meaningful connections with their children, reinforcing the message that quality time outweighs quantity.

From a reader's perspective, this article serves as a reminder that building strong family bonds doesn't require grand gestures or extensive time. Simple, intentional actions can make a profound difference. It reassures parents that they don't need to feel guilty for not being available all the time; instead, focusing on present and engaged moments can provide the care and attention children truly need. This approach not only strengthens family ties but also promotes healthier, happier households.