Socioemotional Changes Following Therapeutic Camp Participation in Children with Chronic Heart Conditions

2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions

October 17–19, 2026 | Brea, CA

The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2026 ATRA Annual Conference in Brea, CA. All sessions, times, and presenter information have been confirmed, though final adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances onsite.

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Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC pre-approval is pending fr all sessions for CEUs.

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Note on Non-ATRA Activities:

Please note that any events or activities not listed in the official ATRA SoCal program are independently organized and not affiliated or sponsored by ATRA. ATRA is not responsible for independently coordinated events, meetups or activities not articulated in this program. Individuals interested in non-ATRA sponsored activities should contact their respective organizations directly for details.

Session Description

This study explores changes in socioemotional functioning among children with cardiac conditions after participation in a pediatric medical camp. Using a pretest-posttest design and the Pediatric Camp Outcome Measure, results indicated significant improvements in self-esteem, emotional functioning, and social functioning after camp participation. The presentation will discuss implications of medically supervised recreational camp experiences as a therapeutic intervention in recreational therapy practice, with emphasis on supporting emotional wellbeing, social connectedness, and perceived competence in children with chronic health conditions.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe how participation in a pediatric medical camp can impact socioemotional functioning (self-esteem, emotional functioning, and social functioning) in children with chronic cardiac conditions. 2. Explain how outcomes from pediatric medical camp programs can be used to understand the effectiveness of recreational therapy interventions. 3. Identify at least two recreational therapy practice strategies used in medically supervised camp environments to promote social connection, emotional regulation, and perceived competence among pediatric participants.

Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply

Target Audience

Co-Presenter/Panelists

Dr. Brittany Dao, CTRS/L, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater

Credentials

PhD, CTRS/L

Biographical Information

Brittany Dao is an assistant professor in the school of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation at Oklahoma State University. She teaches within the Recreational Therapy, Recreation Management and Leisure Studies programs. Her research is centered on pediatric development and quality of life in children with disabilities and developmental delays. Brittany is a Licensed and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS/L).

ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description

October 17–19, 2026

The Embassy Suites, Brea, California

2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions