ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Recreational therapist

A recreational therapist is someone who helps people have fun and enjoy themselves while also helping them feel better. They use games, sports, arts and crafts, and other fun activities to help people who may be sick, injured, or struggling with mental health issues.

Imagine you are playing your favorite game in your backyard with your friends. Now, imagine that one of your friends broke their leg and can't play like they used to. A recreational therapist would come in and find a fun game that your friend can play while still keeping their leg safe. They might use fun exercises to help your friend learn to walk again or do other activities they used to enjoy.

Recreational therapists work with all kinds of people, like older adults who may feel lonely or people with disabilities who need a little extra help. So, they help people play and have fun while also helping them get better and feel happier.