The Parent Training Guide to Recreation . If recreation is included in a child s IEP, it cannot be completed by a curricular service such as special education or physical education. The precise role of the therapeutic recreation specialist is dependent upon the size of the school system, the number and type of students with disabilities, and the extent to which regular educators are available and prepared to provide programs for students with special needs. Also, this type of service may be provided in nontraditional school settings within institutions and other treatment facilities. This most often occurs in regular school environments, particularly mainstreamed settings, but may occur in myriad other settings.
Responsibilities vary depending upon the role or roles assumed.
The therapeutic recreation specialist is not a teacher, but rather a supportive member of the educational team who consults with physical education and special education personnel, other related services personnel, and other educators to extend and enhance the students' total education.