Physical Benefits of Riding
Children with autism often have decreased coordination, strength and muscle tone that make them appear floppy and clumsy. Riding the horse develops strength as the child constantly adjusts his body to stay on and control the horse during changes in speed, direction, hills and curves on a trail. Controlling the reins to steer or stop helps the child develop coordination between the left and right sides of the body. Therapists incorporate opportunities to coordinate position changes, such as turning from facing forward to facing backward. This helps the child with autism to sequence motor steps and follow directions. Assuming and maintaining vaulting positions such as kneeling or standing on top of the horse further helps the child develop balance and motor control.

Sensory Benefits of Riding
Children with autism usually love the vestibular sensory stimulation provided by the horse during a walk or trot. The vestibular (or balance) sense organs located inside the child’s inner ears are stimulated with changes in direction, speed and inclines. The forceful movement of the child’s body being pushed against the horse stimulates the child’s muscles and joints; the touch of the horse’s fur stimulates his skin. In addition, the sounds and smells of the horse and entire equine environment are so exciting that children who may refuse therapy in other settings are often motivated to cooperate.

Developing Cognitive and Language Skills
Children with autism typically struggle to comprehend directions and communicate. Riding a horse provides numerous opportunities to engage in activities that require following directions–such as touching the mane and tail, steering the reins at the junction or saying “Go” after the therapist says, “One, two, three.” The horse provides a natural learning environment because the child is motivated to move, and the therapist can stop the horse to let the child know that he must listen and respond before movement resumes. Cognitive concepts such as counting (while doing sit-ups on top of the horse), naming colors (of balls thrown into the basket while riding), sequencing steps (to touch one’s eyes, ears, nose and mouth during a song) or identifying pictures (hanging on the wall in the arena) can be incorporated into a therapy session.

Emotional Bond Between Child and Horse
Children with disabilities know that the horse will love them for who they are despite their difficulties in
speaking or how they look. They may be encouraged to brush the horse before mounting, hug the mane and
give frequent pats to let the horse know that he is doing a good job and put away part of the tack (such as the neck strap or reins) when the session ends. Caring for a horse helps the child learn about the feelings of
another living being. Hopefully, that bond will help the child with autism develop social and communication
skills in all areas of his life.

Why a Horse?

Many people involved with equine therapy say that horses seem to have an affinity for healing effects on youth. Fun and enjoyment can come out of working with horses. Activities are very hands on and participants don’t feel they are involved in a therapy session. The horses are large and often intimidating creatures, which allows participants to gain trust with the animal. The horse gives you immediate feedback about your own actions and body language through mirroring. If you are tense and nervous, the horse will mirror this feeling. You learn to act and react appropriately.

“Accomplishing a task involving the horse, in spite of those fears, creates confidence and provides for wonderful metaphors for dealing with other intimidating and challenging situations.”