DH Special Services
Education for the Activity Professional |
|
May 2026
|
|
I am an Activity Professional. |
 Has anyone said this to you? “I wish I had your job – all you do is have fun all day.”
“We are looking for a “cheerleader” type person to be the activity director.”
and worst yet – “It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to do activities.”
Statements like these reveals one of the biggest challenges facing the Activity Professional. Many people only see the visible aspect of our work, not the clinical and regulatory knowledge, emotional intelligence, and leadership behind it.
Residents may see bingo, music, outings, crafts, or celebrations. Families may see smiles and laughter. Staff may see calendars and decorations. What they often do not see is the assessment process, behavioral observation, individualized care planning, risk management, documentation requirements, interdisciplinary collaboration, infection prevention protocols, dementia-specific interventions, emotional support, and therapeutic intent that guide every successful program.
Those of us within the profession understand that activities are not “extras.” They are essential to person-centered care. Communicating the value of what we do, whenever we can, is an additional responsibility within our professional scope. Being a strong activity professional means being able to communicate the therapeutic value behind the “fun”. The “fun” is important — joy, laughter and pleasure matter deeply in quality of life.
But behind that enjoyment is professional knowledge, individualized planning, adaptation, and person-centered care. Competent Activity Professionals know how to create meaningful experiences as well as how to communicate why those experiences matter.
Need foundational training or a refresher on professional standards? Our newest NCCAP-approved course can help. Introducing the newest independent study program - The Role of the Activity Professional, a 4.5 NCCAP approved continuing education course. This program introduces foundational information for the activity professional. Standards of practice, certification, professional affiliation, models of care and much more are introduced in this program. The program introduces key information as well as strengthening the knowledge of an experienced activity professional.
|
 The Spring conference season is winding down. I am starting to post the fall schedule as the information is available. There are several states with information posted about their upcoming conferences. Check them out!
If you know of a workshop or conference scheduled, email the information and it will be posted on the Conference page.
Updated postings of on line training can be found on my Facebook page. NAAP and Linked Senior offer live webinars monthly. As a member of NAAP, you have access to a full library of on line education. |
Independent Study Library |
If you are looking for continuing education hours to meet certification requirements while also strengthening your professional skills, consider independent study opportunities through DH Special Services. More than fifty programs are available and can be completed at your convenience, wherever you are.
Topics include:
- Understanding and programming for persons living with dementia
- Specialized activity approaches such as gardening, creative writing, and pet therapy
- Management practices and leadership skills
Some programs are based on books that are mailed directly to participants, while others are delivered through online links or a learning management system. Discounts are available for departmental staff participating together or for individuals who already own the required book materials.
All programs are NCCAP approved and applicable toward certification renewal hours.
|
Standardized ADC Complete |
|
Are you seeking Activity Director Certification? NCCAP offers the Standardized ADC Complete course - which combines MEPAP I and II course content. Individuals who complete this course and pass the national exam will attain Activity Director Certified.
There is also an on demand, independent study "bridge" course for those who have completed MEPAP I and want to level change to ADC.
Both courses are offered in two formats.
-A live class virtual format (like ZOOM) with a live instructor teaching the lessons. This provides opportunities to interact with fellow students and the instructor. You can see the current schedule of classes on the NCCAP site.
-On demand, independent study LMS. You can start it at any time and complete it at your own pace. You can review information about this format on the NCCAP site. |
NCCAP Introduces New Certification Track |
Many states offer “state-specific” activity training courses designed to meet individual state requirements. However, these courses may not always meet the educational standards required for NCCAP Activity Director Certified (ADC) certification.
The good news is that NCCAP is introducing the new Professional Transition Pathway to Activity Director Certified. This certification option was created for experienced activity professionals who have already completed a training certificate program and gained practical experience in the field.
This pathway recognizes prior education and work experience while providing a structured route toward nationally recognized NCCAP certification. Whether your training was completed through a state-approved program or another educational provider, this pathway offers an opportunity to transition into NCCAP certification while maintaining high professional standards.
Visit the NCCAP website today to learn more and watch the informative video explaining this new certification pathway.
|
Alternate Paths to Certification |
 There are alternate paths to NCCAP certification which do not involve completing the MEPAP class. -Experiential path for those with more than five years of experience in activities with two years being activity supervisory experience. This path involves writing eight essays and passing the national exam.
-Professional equivalency path for those who are certified as AT-BT, MT-BT, CTRS, COTA, OTR, CPG or a LNHA. Applicants would also need one year of supervisory experience in activities. The final step would include passing the national exam.
|
~Facebook continues to be a great place for Activity Professionals to share success stories, ideas and resources.
~There were lots of postings about the great activities offered during National Long Term Care Week.
~The latest listings of workshops and conferences are posted as they are scheduled. NAAP offers monthly live webinars which provide complimentary CE hours.
~ To catch these stories and more, you are invited to join the celebration of our profession and aging as well as receive the support of our members on my DH Special Services Facebook Group. |
Here are some helpful Pinterest pages for the upcoming months.
Here comes summer!
|
|
 |
|
| | | |
