The child and parents are greeted and there is a discussion with the parent, finding out “What’s New?”. Medical, educational and social updates are shared.
The patient is brought in from the designated waiting area with helmet and safety belt (“Happy Belt”) already secured by the team.
If able, the patient is led to a grooming area where he/she is supervised while brushing and grooming activities prepare horse and rider for the ride. Speech, fine, gross motor and motor planning skills are the focus during this time.
When finished the patient helps lead the horse into the arena where he/she prepares to mount up.
The horse, clad with bareback pad, surcingle and rope halter is lined up by the Leader to the mounting block or ramp where the horse quietly stands. The patient then mounts up with the help of the Sidewalker and Therapist.
“Walk On” is communicated in one of many ways and the horse then proceeds around the arena twice with one change of direction. This provides the initial input or “IV” that sets the magical scene for improved attention, focus and ultimately learning.
Activities can be engaged in and around the arena, i.e., drawing/writing, baby dolls, basketball, potato head, books, and balls while staying in motion most of or all of the time.
Weather permitting we head out the door into the sunlight for the most enjoyed activity. We all sing “We’re going on a trail ride! Yes we are!” and the team heads out to the “Sensory Trail” for a ride in nature with her own magical stimulations.
The session ends inside the arena where the leader aligns the horse up to the mounting block and the patient dismounts.
The patient dismounts with a pat and a hug for the horse and a resounding “Thank you, helpers” to the staff.
Time is spent after each session to inform the parent on the activities engaged in and progress demonstrated. Home programming is provided based on the carryover needs for the week determined by the therapist.
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