Healing Through Creative and Recreational Activities

Not all healing happens in a therapy office. Our specialized therapeutic activities use art, music, movement, games, and recreation to help children and teens express themselves, develop confidence, build social skills, and discover healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions.

Parent and child painting together at a table with art supplies

Therapeutic activities are an essential part of treatment at our Children’s Hospital, complementing traditional therapy and medication management. Our facility includes a gym and extensive activity areas specifically designed for therapeutic recreation and creative expression.

Recreational and creative programming is led by trained staff and woven into each child’s daily schedule. Activities aren’t a break from treatment. They are treatment, giving kids ways to work through feelings that don’t always come out in talk therapy.

The campus is built for it: a full gymnasium, dedicated activity and recreation areas, and secure, child-friendly outdoor spaces. Music and art programming is offered in partnership with the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art.

Along the way, children practice the exact skills their treatment is building: cooperation, frustration tolerance, self-expression, and confidence. For a lot of kids, an activity is where the breakthrough finally shows up.

Group of children and an adult holding musical instruments during a music activity

What to Expect

Therapeutic activities are part of every child’s structured daily schedule, balanced with therapy sessions, educational programming, meals, and rest.

Activities are matched to each child’s age, interests, and treatment goals, and the team adjusts them as your child progresses.

Other Children’s Hospital Services

Inpatient Services

Intensive, round-the-clock psychiatric care for children and teens ages 4-17. Individualized treatment plans, on-site school, and family involvement throughout the healing process.

Acute Psychiatric Inpatient

Immediate safety and stabilization for children and teens in psychiatric crisis. Short-term inpatient care with rapid assessment, 24/7 monitoring, and comprehensive aftercare planning.

Individual Group Family Therapy

Individual therapy, group experiences, and family sessions tailored to each child’s needs. Licensed clinicians specializing in youth care help children and teens build coping skills and resilience.

Medication Evaluation Management

Careful medication evaluation by child and adolescent psychiatrists. Family-involved decision-making, close monitoring, and clear discharge planning for the best possible outcomes.

Nursing Care Crisis Support

Registered nurses and behavioral health associates providing continuous, compassionate care and crisis support around the clock. Trained in pediatric psychiatric care and therapeutic intervention techniques.

Behavioral Intervention Services

Evidence-based behavioral intervention focused on understanding root causes and building healthier skills. Individualized behavioral plans, consistent reinforcement, and family education for lasting positive change.

Specialized Therapies

Targeted programs including the STATE Program for autism spectrum disorder, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based clinical approaches tailored to each child’s unique needs and diagnosis.