According to the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, or PATH International, more that 42,000 children and adults with physical, mental and emotional challenges undergo some form of equine therapy on a yearly basis. Although the number is not broken down, it likely is safe to assume that most of the participants are kids, including adolescents. Therapeutic riding, hippotherapy, where a child is placed on a horse but not asked to develop riding skills, and equine mental health treatments are some of the programs available for kids. Therapists often report dramatic improvements in kids who interact with horses.
Disabled Kids
Kids with a variety of conditions, from cerebral palsy, to spinal cord injuries, to ADD, to visual problems, to multiple sclerosis are helped by riding, which enables them to work on their balance and coordination. It helps kids develop muscle tone and aids in hand-eye coordination. In essence, horses offer kids physical therapy, but in a much more pleasant setting than a gym. Psychological benefits from riding and grooming horses include increased self-confidence and a better developed sense of caring for others.
Autism and Asperger's Syndrome
Although Equine Therapy says research into the effects of a program for autistic kids and children with Asperger's is still in its infancy, as of 2011, there is a general consensus that therapy animals provide significant benefits. The slow, deliberate and relaxing motion of the horse seems to calm many kids. Many equine programs also encourage a horse to pick his child to work with and thereby create a bond between the horse and the patient. When autistic and Asperger's kids learn to ride and groom a horse, it helps draw kids out of their shell and helps them realize that learning new skills can be enjoyable.
Emotional and Behavioral Issues
A rapidly growing field of equine therapy lies in assisting kids who have emotional and behavioral problems. Kids who lack trust in adults or are angry and out of control often benefit from cognitive therapy using horses. Taking care of a horse occupies a kid's attention, diverts him from his own problems and allows a troubled kid to take a break. It allows for skill development in a low-key atmosphere where it's OK to make mistakes.
Considerations
According to Equine Therapy, health professionals are increasingly recognizing the value of equine-assisted treatments for kids with conditions such as depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. There are a growing number of equine treatment centers where a psychotherapist teams with a professional horseman to treat kids in a ranch atmosphere that is less intimidating and more conducive to bonding among humans and animals. Wilderness therapy for troubled kids, mostly adolescents, also has grown rapidly, and many feature equine therapy. If you are interested in finding an equine therapy center for treatment for you child, to volunteer your time or to work at an equine treatment center, consult PATH International.
