What is Equine-Assisted Learning/Activities for Children and Teens?
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In short, Equine-Assisted Learning/Activities are powerful and effective person-centered approaches that includes one or more horses, designed to have a positive impact on individuals of all ages.
Equine-Assisted Learning/ Activities(EAL & EAA), in regards to working with children and teenagers, is a very unique and authentic experience facilitated through horses. The horse acts as an authentic mirror for the child’s emotions as they are naturally sensitive to human emotions and behavior.The interaction with the horses naturally helps kids, especially youth who have experienced trauma, abandonment, have been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism or who are struggling with behavioral or emotional difficulties. The amount of benefits of EAL & EAA for kids is endless! It can help build social skills, improve physical coordination, promote self-esteem, foster trust, increase emotional awareness, increase self-regulation, improve impulse control, instill confidence, help learn to manage stress in healthy ways, reduce anxiety and learn problem-solving skills.
Equine-Assisted Learning and Activities(EAL & EAA) is an experience-based program that incorporates horses. Thus the kiddos participating in equine-assisted learning might help groom, feed, lead & potentially ride horses. The kids will engage in activities with their horses as they are guided through their session.
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Important Notes:
* It's important to note that the effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Learning can vary from child to child, and not every child will respond equally to this approach. However, for many individuals, the unique qualities of Equine-Assisted Learning can provide valuable insights and promote personal growth and development.
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* It is also important to note, I do not do Equine-assisted Therapy as I am not a licensed counselor, therapist or Psychologist however, I do have extensive training, certifications, experience and education. See the About Me page for a list of my accomplishments. Equine-assisted Learning/Coaching focuses on the future and does not treat or diagnose any type of intense mental health issues. In short, I will meet the child where they are and we will work on goals for the future with their particular barriers/struggles in mind.
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* Final note, your child does not have to have any previous horse experience and no special equipment is needed. I will provide everything they need. I only ask that the kids wear enclosed shoes and appropriate clothing for the elements. I would also suggest wearing pants as it is simply more comfortable when riding, but that is totally up to you.
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If this sounds like something you and your child may be interested in or you simply have questions, please, do not hesitate to reach out and connect. I am more than happy to answer any of your questions and would love to help in any way I can!
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EQUINE-ASSISTED LEARNING FOR YOUTH
Equine Assisted Youth Programs
Free initial consultation​
* Start the process with a complimentary 30-minute phone call or Zoom meeting to answer any questions you may have and to determine the next steps you would like to take.
* Contact me to set up your free session.
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Saddle Up and Shine​​
* One-month program with weekly 90-minute sessions.
* My horse partners will join us for these sessions to aid, support, and encourage you with every step.
* Check-ins (emails or texts) between sessions for encouragement and support.
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Grab the Reins​​
* Three-month program with weekly 90-minute sessions.
* My horse partners will join us for these sessions to aid and support you.
* Check-ins (emails or texts) between sessions for encouragement and extra support.​
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Included in all program plans:
* Printable and online resources to assist you and your child to learn and grow.
* Complimentary journal and pen for your child to document their journey.
* Graduating gift, to help your child to always remember what they’ve accomplished and the progress they’ve made!
* Payment plan available. Discount if paid in full.
* Contact me for pricing options, any questions, and scheduling. I’m more than happy to help in any way I can! I am looking forward to talking to you and your child!
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Group Programs
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The Life HACK Peer Group Program
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The Life Hack Horsemanship course consists of 12, weekly two-hour group sessions, which include horsemanship lessons and horse care training. It was specifically designed to support the development of pro-social behavior and delivers a comprehensive curriculum of animal care, life, work, and social skills.
The curriculum and teaching strategies focus on helping students learn skills that are
transferrable to their lives outside of a riding arena including how to:
• Plan ahead –think about task analysis, problem solving, planning for
the future and being prepared for challenges that they will encounter.• Be flexible and willing to adapt.
• Keep their mind on the task at hand.
• Be confident and engaged.
• Be aware of their environment and the feedback it provides.
• Accept correction and criticism constructively.
• Use horsemanship as an opportunity to socialize appropriately with
peers, volunteers and facilitators.
• Understand how they learn best.
Each session consists of two parts:
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Groundwork curriculum:
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Horsemanship sessions involving hands on practice, arena demonstrations and review workshops that teach gentle and appropriate horse handling skills. Learning how to safely and empathetically interact with horses and how to use proper body mechanics to effectively command a horse improves physical, cognitive and social abilities, enabling people to transfer these abilities to other aspects of their life, such as a classroom environment and/or work situation. Each week’s lesson has a specific theme including:
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• Responsibility
• Respect
• Communication
• Motivation
• Adaptability
• Positive attitude
• Managing emotions
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Horse care lessons:
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Instructors teach a new skill each week, building on the learning from the previous week. Lessons are taught from a social or work skills perspective. For instance, to tack up the horse (saddling) requires planning and responsibility, as a person must know in advance what equipment is needed and what needs to be done with the equipment, position it in a specific order and check their work for safety and completeness. Lessons regularly provide an opportunity to learn how to handle problems and come up with creative solutions.
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* Information from Lindsey Crosbie’s curriculum used, The Life Hack -Horsemanship Skills Course.
