The Therapeutic Recreation Services program in San Diego provides wheelchairs to enable disabled persons to have access to Mission Beach.
Individuals with disabilities have access to many free outdoor activities in San Diego, including activities that are geared towards children. City parks, programs, and services are designed to be inclusive of individuals with disabilities, thanks, in part, to the Therapeutic Recreation Services program. Additionally, children with disabilities may find interest in non-organized activities with their loved ones. Does this Spark an idea?
Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) programs
The City of San Diego has a Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) program through which disabled persons can engage in recreational activities, including adaptive sports. Activities are directed by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists and are geared towards children aged three and up, as well as adults who have physical, mental, and emotional disabilities.
The TRS program also helps to insure that city programs are accessible to people with disabilities. Many of the specialists working for the TRS program are volunteers. Total, volunteers contribute more than 20,000 hours towards the TRS program each year.
Playgrounds
San Diego playgrounds are free to use and may be located right on the beach. Many playgrounds are universally accessible by individuals with disabilities; some playgrounds include modified swings, while others include paved walking paths and nature trails. For example, Shelter Island playground has wide sidewalks that may be suitable for children in wheelchairs.
If children with disabilities are unable to play on playground equipment, they may choose to use fields and picnic areas that are adjacent to many playgrounds. For example, the Sripps Ranch Recreational Center has a turf area that is accessible and perfect for kite-flying. Wells Park and Community Center also has a fenced-in dog park, which could provide entertainment for children. San Diego County playgrounds have varying posted hours, but many are open at dawn and close at dusk.
Beach activities
There are more than 70 miles of beaches in San Diego County, providing free access to a plethora of outdoor entertainment. TRS oversees the Motorized Beach Wheelchair Program, which makes it possible for individuals with disabilities to access Mission Beach. Children with disabilities may enjoy spending time on the beach watching the surfers and swimmers, collecting seashells, or stumbling upon any of the many beach events that take place throughout the year.
The Mission Beach boardwalk also provides three miles of paved beachside access and picnic areas. The beach also has lifeguards and bathrooms that are open to the public. Parking may be difficult in the Mission Beach area.
Tags: with disabilities, Therapeutic Recreation, Mission Beach, Recreation Services, Therapeutic Recreation Services