Horseback riding helps riders meet developmental, social, physical or intellectual or a mixture of these goals. Instructors certified to teach riding to people with disabilities or other special needs tailor our therapeutic horseback riding program to the goals of each SIRE rider. For example, a client may want to improve her balance and walking speed, work on issues of empathy and self-control, or work on improving memory.

THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING takes advantage of the movement of the horse while teaching clients traditional horsemanship skills. Instructors certified to teach riding to people with disabilities or other special needs tailor sessions and semesters to the needs and goals of each SIRE rider. Riders’ goals may be developmental, social, physical or intellectual or a mixture of all these. For example, a client may want to improve her balance and walking speed, to work on issues of empathy or self-control, or to work on improving memory.

Horsemanship is more than riding! For many participants working with the horse through grooming, tacking and leading can be a source of great therapeutic benefit. These activities teach empathy, sequencing, emotional control, and more.

At the end of each semester, instructors summarize progress made toward each rider’s goals. SIRE instructors not only customize riding sessions to meet therapeutic-style goals but also help riders meet personal sport-related goals. Many riders participate in the Houston Rodeo and Special Olympics as part of their program, building confidence, physical ability, and independence.