I am the mother of a child with a mild form of Tourette’s and some other disabilities that no one has been able to put a label on. I only know that experience is the key to his learning and giving him a long time to process helps. I am also a physician, who had never seen a case of Tourette’s until my son was diagnosed. However I did find that when he was introduced to horses and began to ride his tics significantly decreased, he learned appropriate assertive behavior and skills to use for a lifetime. I have since stopped trying to practice traditional medicine and opened a private practice in milieu therapy with horses. This fall we will be starting a 4 part development program to consist of 1. mounted 2.unmounted ground work 3. stable management and 4. classroom. The barn is now my “office” my staff a wonderful group of 4 legged therapists and it is a wonderful, focused environment for LD emotionally disabled children and adults. We have seen Autism, Kabuki syndrome, PTSD, ADD and ADHD, Anorexia, Anxiety, Selective Mutism, the list goes on and on. It is also a place to learn to understand body language, develop social skills, practice control, and just relax with the rhythm of the horses and nature. We are located in Malvern, PA. Would love to hear from people!
Re: Equine Facilitated Experiential Learning for Students wi
Please if you would be so kind,e-mail me with more information on your program. My 8 year old son has been diagnosed with ADHD and learning disabilities.When he gets frustrated with school,peers(teasing ect.),or even me and his father his behavior is sometimes starteling. We have been seeing a therapist to try to learn new ways to deal with all this but I have really seen very little improvement. He is already taking 30mgs. of adderall per day and I dont want to dope him up.I feel like I’m at my wits end. When he was involved in sports the severity of the outbursts diminished unfortunatly sports dont last for the whole summer here in my area.
Hi Lewis,
What a great person you are. Horses are incredible animals and can do great things for anyone spending time with them. I have 2 horses and a hony (1/2 Arab 1/2 Shetland). My LD son can make our biggest quarter horse do almost anything he wants and they a truly bonded. I have done some theraputic riding with some of my son’s friends from school. Due to liability issues I make parents be there and sign a permission slip.
The rhythem of the horse is extremely relaxing, it teaching being in touch, balance and is just calming. Barn work is great therapy that uses lots of energy and give instant gratification.
We just recently started boarding a 36 yr. old Walker who is like a puppy dog. Kids love him since he follows them around.
We live in Biglerville, Pa ( 6 miles from Gettysburg). Keep me posted how your are doing with your new advanture.