Horseback Riding

Mrs. Olance’s Class

April 22, 2002

Our Class

What is Therapeutic Horseback Riding ?

• To see students with special needs ride horses is truly an unforgettable experience. Not only do they sit taller and smile more, they extend their dreams beyond the confines of their disability, into new, unexplored worlds. Riding exercises the spirit as well as the body.

Benefits of Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Physical Benefits:*Improved Balance*Strengthens Muscles*Improved Coordination

Psychological Benefits:*Improved Self-Confidence*Improved Risk-Taking*Development of Patience*Improved Inter-Personal Relationships

Benefits of Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Educational Benefits:*Improved Gross Motor Skills*Improved Fine Motor Skills*Improved Speech and Language Skills*Improved Right and Left Discrimination

*Improved Basic Concepts The benefits are too numerous to mention.

We put our helmets on.

• The first thing we have to do when we get to the barn is get our helmets and put them on.

The horses.

• The horses are waiting for us in the barn.

Students learn how to mount their horses.

Students learn how to mount their horses.

Students learn how to listen carefully and follow directions.

• This rider is paying close attention.

• A happy rider!

Students develop confidence and enthusiasm!!

A Confident Rider on Braveheart.

Students learn how to ride.

• Students have front and side-walkers.

Students learn proper posture.

• This student is sitting up tall in the saddle.

Students use their words.

• When we want our horses to stop we say, “whoa”.

• Students are learning to ride their horses in the barn.

• An enthusiastic rider on Chum.

Students learn how to post

This student is shooting a basket.

Students learn how to ride.

Students develop a special relationship with their horses. This student gives his horse a hug when

they are finished riding.

A Special Thank You to The Kiwanis Club of East Lansing!!

• We are having a wonderful experience horseback riding.

• We would like to thank you for helping this dream come true.

• We would like to invite you to join us for one of our horseback riding trips.

• From Mrs. Olance’s Class

A Special Thank You to Our Other Sponsors this year

* Ingham County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Division * East Lansing Meridian Lions Club

* David Koski

We appreciate your generosity!!!