Recreation Therapist I

The Recreation Therapy I role within the Stollery Child Life Program is an exciting and innovative opportunity to support children, youth, and families in an acute care pediatric setting. Working with patients aged 0-17 years, this position focuses on delivering meaningful, developmentally appropriate, and therapeutic play experiences that promote coping, normalization, and emotional well‑being during hospitalization. The successful candidate will provide a combination of group programming and one‑to‑one therapeutic interventions within both the clinical outdoor playground and indoor play environments. These spaces are designed to support physical, social, and emotional development, offering opportunities for recreation, healing, and positive distraction. As an integrated member of the Child Life team, the Recreation Therapist will collaborate closely with Child Life Specialists, Art Therapists, Music Therapists, and other interdisciplinary partners to enhance patient-centered care. The role also includes participation in special events, seasonal celebrations, and hospital‑wide initiatives that bring joy and connection to patients and families. This position reports to the Manager of the Child Life Program and receives day‑to‑day direction and support from a Team Leader. The ideal candidate brings creativity, compassion, and enthusiasm for working with children and families in a dynamic healthcare environment. A genuine love for play, relationship-building, and working in a fast-paced acute care pediatric setting is essential.

As a Recreation Therapist I, you will be working collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team, providing comprehensive services for patients (clients, residents) within your assigned program or service area. You will ensure the level of therapeutic recreation practice is evidence based, patient-and family-centred, and in accordance with policies, procedures and standards of practice. You will complete assessment, treatment, education and management of clients¿ treatment progress and provide clinical support and consultation. You will collaborate and communicate with the health care team and participate in patient rounds, family conferences and meetings as related to the client and family.

Completion of bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation and Leisure Studies. Active or eligible registration with Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA).

Ability/desire to work in a variety of weather conditions; all 4 seasons. This position will primarily be working with children and families in a clinical setting that includes an outdoor rooftop play space containing park equipment. Experience working with pediatric patients ages 0-17 years. 1 year experience as a recreation therapist, familiar with program development.

As required.