Alexander Youth Network uses play and recreation at our Charlotte Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF)  as one of our therapeutic models for treating children with mental and behavioral health challenges.

Play and physical activity offer children multiple benefits for mental health and physical development. Through play with peers and counselors, children are able to build trust and positive relationships with others through a personalized Person-Centered Plan for therapy.

At our PRTF facility, children are encouraged to partake in developmentally-appropriate activities. These activities allow children to play and learn at their own pace. They also engage in structured skill-building to develop coping mechanisms that work for them.

Activities are led by trained staff and volunteers to meet the needs of each child. Recreational activities could include and are not limited to:

• Volleyball
• Biking
• Gardening
• Music “Jam Sessions”
• Reading
• Equine Therapy