Autism Programs 2012

SIGN UP NOW FOR 2012 SESSIONS! NEW MONTH TO MONTH FORMAT

We offer weekly sessions for children on the spectrum targeting specific goals, such as communication, sensory regulation, gross and fine motor skills, and social skills.

The benefits experienced by autistic kids are largely due to the special relationship they develop with the horse. The therapist will work to create and then deepen the bond between the horse and your child. One of the ways in which this is achieved is by helping with the horses' care, such as brushing and feeding them, and also by learning about the horse(s).

The unconditional, non-judgmental aspect of the bond between the horse and the student encourages the child to form an attachment and interaction with another living being, which is especially important, and difficult, for autistic kids. This emotional bond can also motivate the child to perform skill building tasks. As a responsive and exciting living being, horses can motivate and stimulate the client in unique ways!

Communication is promoted by rhythmic, balanced equine movement which offers an effective means of addressing speech and language deficits through facilitation of the physiological systems that support speech and language function. And also by the child's desire to communicate with the therapist and the horse.

Sensory integration via hippotherapy simultaneously addresses the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, visual, olfactory, and auditory systems. This can greatly improve the child's ability to integrate their senses and gain understanding of how their bodies relate to external forces.
 
The horses' response to non-verbal communication (see the 'Why Horse' page for more information) gives clear feedback so that your child will understand the impact their voice or actions are having, and they can adjust their behavior accordingly to get the desired result. Your child will learn to communicate with the horse through body language, increasing their awareness of what is appropriate. These skills can be transferred to other interactions in real life.

Fees are $100.00 for 4 weeks

Monday through Thursday                     
12:00-12:45                                           
1:00-1:45                                                
2:00-2:45                                                
3:00-3:45                                                
4:00-4:45

Sessions last 45 minutes, approximately 20-30 minutes of which is mounted. The remainder of the session is on the ground with the horses where we continue to work on skills. The setting here at the ranch is quiet and peaceful, with other animals to interact with and enjoy as well, making this an enjoyable learning experience!

If you don't see a time that will work for you, such as mornings or weekends, please inquire. There are a limited number of morning times available on a case by case basis.

This is a wonderful adjunctive program to other therapies, such as ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) or DIR/Floortime. If desired, we can work with the child's treatment team and support their existing care/behavioral plan.

We also offer family support group sessions and retreats for parents and sibling of autistic children. Family sessions and retreats take place on weekends. 

We're working to obtain funding for scholarships for military families to participate free of charge, or on a sliding scale. You can contact us at the email address below and we will keep you informed as funds become available.

Please email us at horsewisdom.org@gmail to let us know of your interest for any of the above programs and preferred times and days. You will be contacted shortly! If you are a military family, please specify. If you previously filled out the form on this page, please contact us again as we have been having trouble receiving them!
Content copyrighted by Horse Wisdom January 2011