“Look at me now. You would never tell that I couldn’t walk and talk at age 5.” ~Emileigh Marsh

THERAPEUTIC RIDING

Participants in therapeutic riding programs show:

  • improved social functioning

  • improved language and communication skills

  • better emotional regulation, better behavior, increased motivation, higher confidence and self-esteem

  • better focus in the classroom

  • increased capacity to follow instructions

  • improved school attendance

  • reduced anxiety

  • generally improved mood

Interestingly, physical benefits such as improvements in body awareness, core strength, balance and integration of small and large motor skills development have also been shown to be important in helping boost a person’s reading skills.

SIRE provides riding sessions throughout the school year, including a summer session. For more information about the riding schedule, see the calendar.

EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING (EAL)

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an experiential approach that promotes the development of life skills for education, professional and personal goals through equine assisted activities. In an EAL setting, equine-human interaction is guided by a planned learning experience to meet the identified goals or desires of the participant(s). Skills learned will transfer to life skills such as:

  • Turn-taking
  • Patience
  • Empathy
  • Teamwork and problem-solving
  • Controlling emotions
  • Communication
LESSON STRUCTURE

Lesson plans will be individualized based on underlying goals and objectives, using Casel’s 5 core competencies for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). Chosen because they are evidence-based, readily integrated into school systems’ existing SEL programs, and most importantly, capitalize on the unique characteristics of horses.

SESSION TYPES

Sessions will be two hours in duration consisting of an opening circle, two activities, and a closing circle for discussion and reflection. Progress is monitored by meeting prior to the beginning of the program to review goal and maintaining ongoing communication throughout the duration of the program.

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VETERANS

Riding, grooming or just interacting with horses can help veterans of the military learn ways to overcome the struggles they may experience in dealing with everyday civilian life. Horses also help veterans heal from the emotional and physical scars of military service. Working with horses has many benefits:

  • Reduced anxiety
  • Increased confidence
  • Improved mindfulness
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Improved relationships

RIDE

Maximum of 4 riders.
Minimum age required 3 years old.

DONATE

Provide scholarships for riders and equine care for SIRE horses.

VOLUNTEER

Sign up to volunteer inside or outside the arena today.