37 TAC § 380.9117. Structured Activity and Recreation, DIVISION 1. BASIC SERVICES

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to provide for structured activity and recreation programs for youth as a vital and essential aspect of individual development and as opportunity for appropriate social interaction.

(b) Applicability. This rule applies to high and medium restriction facilities operated by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD).

(c) General Provisions.

(1) Each facility's schedule includes the following:

(A) at least one hour of large-muscle exercise:

(i) seven days per week in high restriction facilities; and

(ii) five days per week in medium restriction facilities; and

(B) structured recreational activities or leisure-time activities:

(i) for at least one hour each day in high restriction facilities; and

(ii) for at least two hours each day in medium restriction facilities.

(2) The recreation and large-muscle exercise program at each facility:

(A) is conducted in cooperation with staff from various facility departments;

(B) provides access to:

(i) a variety of indoor and outdoor recreational activities as weather permits; and

(ii) fixed and movable recreation equipment and adequate indoor and outdoor recreation and activity space; and

(C) includes:

(i) a variety of physical activities to reflect the expressed interests of the youth and to expose youth to different opportunities;

(ii) physical skill-building to help maintain lifetime health and fitness;

(iii) encouragement for youth to self-monitor and set personal fitness goals; and

(iv) a means to individualize the intensity of activities and measure individual improvement.

(3) A written schedule of large-muscle exercise activities and recreation events is available to youth.

(4) TJJD ensures adequate staff are available to provide proper supervision during recreational activities.