Home or school activities activities before the therapeutic horse riding classes

In the case of children with autism (but not only for them) very helpful are some school activities (at home or at school) which prepare the child for therapeutic horse riding classes. 

For example, in Poland, we use special book prepared for this kind of classes by the Polish Hippotherapy Association (PHA). The book is available in Polish and English.
 

Organizing space and objects

Well organized space and objects to operate for children with autism spectrum disorders (but not only for them) is very important. It helps the child to focus on a specific activity, facilitates decision making and the learning of therapeutic riding session protocol.

One part of this could be preparing for the each one horse the whole set of equipment at the same color.

Leading a horse by the patient

Leading a horse is a very important part of the therapeutic session. The child learns a patience (must to wait for the ride) and to proceed according to the established order. Also this part develops self-confidence of the child. 

Therapeutic riding session protocol

Therapeutic riding session protocol prepared for the needs of  the Project HO.R.S.E. includes:

1. Greeting to the horse and the therapeutic team
2. Grooming the horse
3. “Dressing up” the horse (pad, belt, etc.)
4. Horse leading by the child (with the assistance of the therapist) for one or two rounds in the arena
5. Mounting
6. Exercises with the child on the horse
7. Dismounting and farewell with the horse and the therapeutic team
8. Horse care
9. Arranging materials (pad, belt, etc.)

Therapeutic riding sessions during Polish winter

grooming the horse by an autistic student

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Mounting the horse

Leading the horse

Dressing the horse

Personal programme of the autistic student which is supported by photos

A kind of material we use in therapeutic riding session with autistic students