Special Needs Therapeutic Riding
In addition to the groundwork-based program(s) Barnabas Horse Foundation offers, we also provide a unique opportunity for children and young adults with varying physical, emotional, and intellectual abilities to take part in therapeutic riding.
During a 30-minute session, participants engage in activities while mounted on the back of a horse. “Teams” are created that draw on the strengths and compatibility of one another, including rider(s), volunteers, and horses. During this process, different regions of the brain are activated, and riders can recognize how being on horseback makes them feel, where they feel the identified emotion, and how to use said feelings to enjoy the process of being carried by a horse.
Activities engaged in range from obstacle courses (being led by a walker, or by the rider steering the horse via commands), stations with different breathing and stretching practices to encourage balance and relaxation and more. This program is suited for those with a range of physical conditions too! Riding horses provides a somatic experience that hones in on fine and gross motor skills, stimulating horse and rider awareness, connection, and responsiveness.
It is our desire to make every child and young adult that takes part in this program to feel comfortable, confident, and independent as possible as they explore the realm of horseback riding and the joys it has to offer.
For more information or to sign-up, please contact Shayla at (301)266-7027.