Outdoor Learning Programs
New this year, Bloom Therapeutic Recreation & Fitness, will be offering unique inclusive outdoor learning options for individuals living with
intellectual and developmental disabilities
Come back! REGISTRATIONS for our Summer Program opens in March 2022
Developed by a team of Registered Recreation Therapists and supported by future Therapeutic Recreation graduates from Algonquin College, our outdoor programs have been developed with a person-centered approach and strengths-based care in mind. Our goal is to nurture and enhance each participant’s love for nature and water sports, through stimulating outdoor experiences!
Fall Options
Our Fall Outdoor Learning Program is the ultimate day-program opportunity for individuals ages 12-35, living with developmental and Intellectual disabilities, to experience Life Skills Learning in a unique outdoor setting, at our partner hosting site, the Ottawa River Canoe Club located in Kanata North/Dunrobin area.
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Our outdoor learning program focuses on teaching the following personal and social skills using our environment and community:
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Motivation
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Attitude
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Accountability
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Presentation
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Teamwork
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Time Management
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Adaptability
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Stress Management
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Confidence
Under the care and support of our wonderful team of Recreation Therapists and educators, our participants will learn how these skills can be developed with interactive tools and challenging activities that will get their brains thinking, both on land and on water in a safe 4:1 ratio. Certain arrangements can be made to access personalized 1:1 support, for an additional fee, for anyone requiring additional assistance and guidance during program hours.
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Our 2021 program will be running in four (4) half-day lessons per week - Starting September 13th to November 3rd, and participants are free to choose one or many lessons they would like to attend per week among the following options:
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Monday AM (9am-12pm)
Monday PM (1-4pm)
Tuesday PM ( 1-4 pm)
Wednesday AM (9am-12pm)
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*Please note that spots are limited for this program and will be offered on a first come-first served basis.
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Program location is: 1610 sixth line road, Ottawa, On, K0A 1T0
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For more information or questions please contact us at info@bloomtherapeuticrecreation.com
Summer Options
While spending their time outdoors and on the water, our campers will experience so many exciting adventures that will help build self-esteem and improve their social skills while also developing new motor skills, engaging in regular physical activity and experiencing the many benefits on their mental health that nature provides.
Recreational and sprint canoes and kayaks are used to introduce our campers to the sport of CanoeKayak. The daily on-water activities will include safety orientation, technical instruction, and games, as well as individualized adaptations and support on the water. While all abilities are welcome, campers must be comfortable on the water.
Our Options
The PaddleAll camp will be offered in two options, to allow our campers to join the best opportunity that fits their
unique needs:
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PaddleAll Youth & Adults camp (ages 12-35yrs) for individuals living with ID/DD supported by a team of experienced and qualified staff and student-volunteers in a minimum 2:1 ratio
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Fully Integrated Camp option for individuals who wish to partake in our other summer youth camp groups, with 1:1 support.
With our specialized intake method, our team will provide guidance and ensure that all health considerations, unique characteristics, strengths, interests, and personal goals are shared and integrated in the camper’s individual recreation plan. While we will provide the necessary level of support for each individual, we do require all of our our campers to be comfortable with their own personal care needs, and otherwise providing their own personal support companion during camp hours if necessary.
Our Staff
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The PaddleAll summer camps will be led by a team of highly qualified and experienced staff. Our on-site daily team will consist of one Lead instructor (Registered Recreation Therapist) along with our qualified team counselors which include Developmental Service Workers, Youth service workers, Physical educators, Kinesiologists, Recreation therapists and Recreation therapy students.
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All of our staff members have taken specialized trainings in supporting individuals of all abilities in sports, sport specific training, health and safety trainings and are required to provide proof of their updated CPR/AED and standard first aid certifications, and completed a mandatory vulnerable sector police check. along with other relevant trainings to better support the individuals we serve.
Participants will experience exciting daily activities, that meet their social, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs, all while experiencing and developing new skills through the sport of canoe/kayak.
For any questions or to discuss your options and particularities, please contact our PaddleAll Coordinator and founder/Director at Bloom Therapeutic Recreation & Fitness at info@bloomtherapeuticrecreation.com