ABOUT US
Our programs utilize the unique qualities of the horse to affect positive changes and develop life skills in the lives of children and adults. In addition to the measurable horsemanship skills, participants in Horse Heritage Educational Program will gain necessary life skills. Through experiences that the participant has while guided through our program, they will absorb the knowledge and gain the ability to apply these life skills to their lives appropriately. We have developed eight categories of skills that are essential to the development of adequate life skills.
PERSONAL GROWTH PROGRAM
LIFE SKILLS FOCUS
Being: Horses are completely accepting and non-judgmental, which allows participants to realize that they are special. They will gain acceptance of themselves with increased self-esteem. Participants will be responsible for the care of their horse and its equipment which teaches responsibility and self-discipline.
Living: Certain safety guidelines are enforced for all participants. By practicing them, participants will begin to develop an understanding of their personal safety. Personal stress is a common concern in today’s world. We will allow the opportunity for participants to see the calming and relaxing effect of both horses and nature.
Thinking: Handling and riding horses is dynamic. Participants will be required to make decisions and solve problems pertaining to their immediate situation (i.e. how do I get on, or where is the bridle). Critical thinking is applied while trying to solve problems (i.e. if that’s a halter, this must be a bridle).
Managing: Being able to set goals and understand the steps that will be needed to reach them is very important for becoming a productive member of society. Goals will direct their personal learning throughout the program.
Relating: Communication between student and horse, student and student, and student and instructor is essential to having success as a rider. It is vital that we are effective in our communication with others in our families, schools, and jobs. By having a good understanding of verbal and non-verbal communication techniques and being able to apply those techniques, our participants will be successful in their interactions with others.
Caring: Horses are dependent for all their care on their handlers. As a result of this our participants will form a bond with their horse, which nurtures empathy and caring for their animal. This is the building block of creating nurturing relationships with other humans.
Giving: In order to become a responsible citizen you must be able to contribute to society. Our participants will learn how to be leaders. They will be required to exhibit leadership with their horses in order to accomplish their riding goals. This leadership will also be shown between participants as they demonstrate their horse knowledge.
Working: Handling and riding horses is a hands on experience requiring teamwork and self-motivation. Participants have to work with their horse, as well as other students. Many of our activities are self-directed, and will require that the participant is motivated to prepare their horse for the upcoming activity. This independence of our participants is vital in their everyday lives.
