Horseback riding is an experience many kids dream about and enjoy – there’s something about spending time with a gentle horse with
Therapeutic Riding, that removes the barriers to experiencing a day at the barn. Jan Vescelius, Program Director and Head Instructor at
Therapeutic Riding describes,“[We] provide equine assisted activities to all people, from the age of 4 years and up, with all types of disabilities, special needs and challenges. We offer group, semi-private, and private lessons, both mounted and unmounted. We also offer special Day At The Farm programs for groups for a one-time, 3-hour comprehensive horse experience.” Finances should not be a barrier either, “The Sam and Juliana Zirinsky Memorial Scholarship Fund assures that no one is ever turned away due to inability to pay rider fees.”
Instructors and volunteers are trained to meet the individual needs of each child, creating safe, progressive lesson plans, short- and long-term goals, while matching the child with a horse that is the best fit for the child’s needs and abilities. “The impact that horseback riding and other activities imparts to our clients is huge!” Vescelius shares. This includes “Improved self-esteem, postural alignment and control, sensory integration, fine and gross motor control, problem solving, a sense of control, teamwork, normalization of muscle tone.” And that includes the best therapy of all – fun.
If you’re interested in learning more about Therapeutic Riding, 3425 Morgan Road,
visit www.therapeuticridinginc.org or call their office at 734-677-0303
