Everything you need to know about how Happy Hands Recreation supports your child and family.
No. Happy Hands Recreation provides recreational therapy and movement-based developmental recreation services. We are not a replacement for occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, or medical care. When a child is already working with another provider, we can collaborate with family goals and incorporate aligned activities into sessions when appropriate.
Yes. When families share goals from an occupational therapist, speech therapist, behavior therapist, or other provider, we can thoughtfully incorporate related movement, regulation, play, and participation goals into our recreation-based sessions.
We review your child’s age, needs, location, and goals. From there, we’ll recommend the best next step, which may include a consultation, a customized session plan, a group program, or another referral if a different service would be a better fit.
Happy Hands Recreation offers an inquiry process so we can understand your child, your goals, and the best next step. If a consultation or assessment-style visit is recommended, we’ll clearly share the details before anything is scheduled.
We support children ages 0–10, with specific programs designed for different age ranges. Movement & Coordination Training is geared toward ages 3–10, Homeschool Fitness & Enrichment toward ages 2–10, and Early Intervention Support (coming soon) toward ages 0–4.
Depending on the program, sessions can happen in your home, at a community partner’s location, or at an organized event. We serve families and organizations across South Florida.
Sessions blend purposeful play, structured movement, and guided support — think obstacle courses, ball activities, movement games, and sensory-rich experiences, all chosen to support each child’s specific goals.
Every session is designed and led by Paola Dutra, a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with a Master’s Degree in Recreational Therapy from Florida International University.
Clarity and collaboration, so families always know exactly what to expect.
Happy Hands Recreation is led by a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. Services are recreational therapy and movement-based developmental recreation services. We are not a substitute for occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, or medical care. When helpful, we can collaborate with a child’s existing therapy team and align activities with family or provider goals.
We’re happy to help you figure out the best next step for your child or organization.