Developing memorable experiences and connections.
This was one of the biggest benefits to Jackson! Looking back we have thousands of pages of research on different kinds of therapies. In the end, experiences moved him forward the most. Making an emotional connection to something brought him out of the world of autism.
Equine-Assisted Therapy teaches children the importance of nonverbal communication. Communication is one of the hallmarks of ASD. So at first, this seemed odd to us. “We are not going to demand that he speak?” We quickly learned that nonverbal communication was just as important. The horse’s reaction to a child’s mood helps them see how their emotions and nonverbal cues affect those around them. Plus for whatever reason in Jackson’s case, he was calmer around these animals. Waiting was not a problem. The whole mood was relaxed.
Hippotherapy is defined as “an equine-assisted activity for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with special needs.”
In 1969, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship
(PATH) International was formed to provide equine therapy programs for individuals with handicaps and disabilities. Today, PATH has nearly 5,000 certified instructors.
We have always known animals have a powerful connection with Jackson. Horses have been an integral part of his therapeutic treatment for many years.
Along with the core muscle work, riding also promotes emotional growth and cognitive development. “Horses move three-dimensionally,” For example as a horse walks forward, its entire body shifts through space. This is also true for humans. This makes the riding experience seem natural.
Riding horses helps wake up your sensory receptors, which intern helps make therapy exciting and motivating.
It has been many years since Jackson has done any kind of therapeutic riding. For him, it was one of the few things that really clicked. Today he rides independently and bonds with all the animals here on the farm.
Will it work for every child? Most studies show that it will have some kind of positive benefit.
Although we do not offer therapeutic riding here at Hidden Bee Farm you never know we are always evolving.
Check out this article from Nashville Parents to learn more.