Recreational Therapy Practicums

Recreational Therapy Practicum students have the opportunity to work with participants in our community recreation programs. Programs are provided to children and young adults with disabilities or special health care needs that live within the community. Practicum hours for fall and spring semesters are offered only in our Mountainside, Toms River and New Brunswick locations. Locations vary in the summer during camp season. Some opportunities for additional exposure in our inpatient rehabilitation and long term care facilities may be available. This practicum is offered only to students receiving credit and currently enrolled in Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy graduate or undergraduate degree programs.

Fall and spring semester practicum students are expected to complete their fieldwork experience within a minimum of an 8-week period. Summer practicum students have the opportunity to complete their hours at Pal’s Paradise Day Camp, True Grit SCI Camp (overnight camp) or Camp Chatterbox (overnight camp). Students are expected to work hands-on with individuals with disabilities in a recreational and summer camp setting.

Click here for Application

Application Deadlines:

  • Summer practicums starting May 2025 – Application deadline is February 18, 2025
  • Fall practicums starting September 2025 – Application deadline is May 1, 2025
  • Winter 2025 practicums starting January 2026 – Application deadline is September 10, 2025

For information regarding practicums please contact:
Caitlyn Foelsch, MHA, CTRS
Manger of Community Programs
Children's Specialized Hospital
150 New Providence Road
Mountainside, NJ 07092
908-301-5548
CFoelsch@childrens-specialized.org
Learn about our recreation programs here

Patient Stories

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