The Faces Behind Heartfelt Moments: Celebrating Recreation Therapy Month at Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice
As Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice marks 20 years in 2026, we reflect on the programs and people who have shaped our mission — enriching the quality of lives for children facing a life-limiting illness and their families. One of the many ways this care is delivered is through our recreation therapy program.
Beginning a decade ago with a single recreation therapist and a shared vision, the program offered children and families a space to come together through meaningful play and connection. While the team and program have grown over the years, its purpose has remained the same: honouring each child’s unique needs, personality, and cherishing every life and legacy.
Through therapeutic activities and playful experiences, recreation therapy allows kids to be kids – and gives families moments they’ll always remember.
“Most of my days here are spent playing, laughing, and helping families create lasting memories,” says Olivia, Recreation Therapist.
Meeting children and families where they are
The halls of RNCH are often filled with the smell of cookies baking, coffee brewing, and the sound of children laughing. But the work of our recreation therapy team goes beyond play. Working alongside a multidisciplinary care team, memory-making and legacy building activities give families and children a way to express emotions, grow bonds, and make meaningful moments during their journey. Families are supported by our recreation therapy team in creating keepsakes such as 3-D printed hand molds, ink prints, memory boxes, end-of-life photography, interlocking heart necklaces, and hug scarves — thoughtful mementos that honour their child’s life and legacy.
The team also leads specialized programs that support the entire family. One being our Spectacular Incredible Brave Sibs (S.I.B.S), which offers siblings of children with life-limiting illnesses a space to process emotions and connect with peers who are on similar journeys.
Special experiences unfold within thoughtfully designed spaces, like the playroom, where remembrance and creativity come together. Children play games or have fun with our team members. While families find comfort in shared connections. Features within the playroom such as the costume wardrobe, star ceremony, and memorial tree serve as gentle reminders of the children whose lives continue to inspire us every day.
“I just love bringing people together for meaningful causes,” says Angel, Recreation Therapy Assistant.
Bringing special experiences to children and families
Recreation therapists work closely with staff and volunteers to create environments where everyone can contribute meaningfully. RNCH’s Child and Family volunteers feel confident in their roles, helping enrich the lives of children in our care, no matter how short.
Building on these everyday moments of connection, themed events such as our annual Spring Fling or Halloween party, create further opportunities for families to share experiences and find comfort in community.
“When I see the kids laughing and enjoying the activities, I feel so grateful to be part of their journey,” says Sam, Recreation Therapist. “It’s such a rewarding experience to create moments that matter for them and their families.”
Beyond these larger gatherings, children can take part in a wide range of enriching activities year-round — from music-making with Jesse from We Are All Musicians (WAAM), to visits with our furry-friend Finn from Ottawa Therapy Dogs and his handler Lorraine, to Heroes Circle – Kids Kicking Cancer, where children practice martial arts and soothing techniques with sensei Lyne and sensei Cody.
That same sense of fun and connection carries into our Summer Day Camp. What began with three sessions each summer has expanded to four, allowing even more children to come together for special guest visits and one-of-a-kind care.
Creating childhood memories and unique experiences are deeply valued here at RNCH. Whether it’s guiding a child through an individualized activity or organizing events focused on memory-making and legacy building with families, our recreation therapists bring care and attention to every detail, ensuring that every child and family feels supported, seen, and celebrated throughout their journey.
