Children's Therapeutic Recreation Assistant

Ditmas Children’s Nursing & Rehab

POSITION: Therapeutic Recreation Assistant

DESCRIPTION: Ditmas Children's Nursing & Rehab is looking for an organized, compassionate, and highly engaged Therapeutic Recreation Assistant. In this role, the successful candidate is responsible for managing the delivery of developmentally appropriate play activities, expressive arts, and special events for pediatric patients and family members, including siblings. The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant is responsible for the direct supervision of patients and siblings/guests both at the bedside and in various playroom/recreation spaces. The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant maintains a safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate environment for both group and one-on-one activities and provides orientation and direct supervision of volunteers.

SCHEDULE: Full Time - Evening and weekend coverage required

Job Responsibilities:

• 
  Facilitates normalization and positive adjustment of pediatric patients to the facility experience by introducing and providing a variety of developmentally appropriate play and creative expression opportunities at bedside and in playroom setting(s). Facilitates and promotes patient participation in special events, holiday activities, etc.

• 
  Provides direct supervision of patients, families, and guests in the pediatric playrooms. Managing behavior and environmental conditions to foster safety and infection control.



• Assists in orientation of patients and families unfamiliar with facility features or routines.

• 
  Communicates and collaborates with members of the interdisciplinary team in a professional and effective manner. Maintains confidentiality per facility policy, communicates relevant patient information to supervisor and when appropriate, other members of the treatment team.

• 
  Develops and demonstrates a therapeutic and supportive relationship with patients and families, maintaining appropriate professionalism and boundaries.

• 
  Ensures the safety of patients and all participants during activities, special events, and programs, including transport to and from activities. Complies with all department, facility, and regulatory agency policies and procedures including emergency procedures, infection control, patient safety, and environmental safety.

• 
  Provides and maintains a safe and therapeutic environment including age-appropriate supplies in compliance with safety and infection control policies (e.g., toy cleaning). Manages the selection of toys and materials for playrooms, including the ordering, receiving, storing and distribution of supplies and donations. Maintains equipment and the working environment in a neat and orderly manner according to departmental procedures. Requests needed equipment and supplies on a timely basis.

• 
  Participates in ongoing education and development to enhance skills and programming.

• 
  Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma; Associate degree in Therapeutic Recreation or Health Related Field preferred

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in child development, early childhood education/elementary education, or a related field preferred.

DEPARTMENT: Pediatrics

STATUS: Full Time

LOCATION: 2103 Ditmas Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226, USA

Qualified candidates must be able to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization.