In April 2010 we will be increasing the number of therapeutic riding lessons for young people with special needs.  Jacinta Holly, who also co-ordinates the Equine Assisted Learning Service will be offering therapeutic riding lessons from the 12th April onwards.  Jacintas training is as a Occupational Therapist and has extensive experience of working wtih people with disbilities through the medium of horses.

Much more than riding…………

The experience has multiple opportunities for children to increase physical skills, social skills and communication skills. Children develop muscle strength, balance and coordination during riding. They have the opportunity to develop increased communication skills and increased positive social interaction with their coach.  The benefits include the opportunity to:

•    Develop recreational, educational goals
•    Enhance social skills and trust levels through special effects of the human/animal bond
•    Improve sensory integration skills
•    Lengthen attention span and concentration
•    Improve posture, balance, coordination, flexibility, and normalize muscle tone
•    Increase self-confidence and self-discipline
•    Promote responsibility and cooperation
•    Build self-esteem through challenge in a success oriented experience

We know that therapeutic riding offers the following:

•    Improves balance and coordination
•    Provides passive stretch for tight muscles
•    Replicates a muscle movement pattern like that of walking
•    Improves posture
•    Strengthens muscles by encouraging muscular response
•    Increases awareness of one’s body in space
•    Stimulates the vestibular, nervous and circulatory systems
•    Improves range of motion

All these measurable physical benefits come without the rider even being aware of what is happening. The benefits are not only physical in nature or reserved for individuals with physical disabilities. There are emotional and psychological benefits as well.

Therapeutic Riding reinforces standards of behaviour such as:

•    Teaches trust through the rider/horse bond
•    Teaches problem solving skills
•    Increases self-confidence and self-discipline
•    Teaches the use of patience to control the horse
•    Enhances decision making skills
•    Promotes responsibility and cooperation
•    Increases the ability to focus and stay on task
•    Provides an increase in self-esteem and pride
•    Instills a sense of accomplishment

We are truly delighted to be able to start offering therapeutic riding lessons.

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