There's magic in the air when days start getting longer and golden sunlight stretches well into the evening. Teachers and students alike sigh with longing for the approaching summer vacation.
Benefits of equine-assisted activities
Summer is an excellent time to explore the physical, emotional and cognitive benefits of therapeutic horsemanship.
Parents, though, are often less than excited about summer as they wonder how they can keep their kids entertained while helping them learn more than what is offered on daytime television. There is nothing like sitting astride a horse or working in a stable to reinforce lessons learned during the school year while also discovering new skills and hobbies, and summer is an excellent time to explore the physical, emotional and cognitive benefits of therapeutic horsemanship. PATH Intl. Centers across the country are beginning registration periods for summer sessions.
Many centers offer riding lessons throughout the summer. In addition to riding lessons, PATH Intl. Center summer camps—for both disabled and able-bodied participants—offer lessons on horse care and ground work. Nature exploration is always a fun activity in any camp. Many activities and games, such as obstacle courses, help riders improve their equestrian skills while gaining physical benefits, such as improving balance, coordination and posture, increasing flexibility, and building muscle and core strength.
Summer camps and lessons fill up quickly. Contact the center nearest you to register. Go to the PATH Intl. website and click on Find a Center. Search by state and by activity.
Summer is just around the corner, and the memories are waiting to happen.
About PATH Intl.:
Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), formerly NARHA, was formed in 1969 to promote equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs. At more than 800 member centers, nearly 48,000 children and adults find a sense of independence through involvement with horses. These member centers range from small, one-person programs to large operations with several certified instructors and licensed therapists.
In addition to therapeutic equitation, a center may offer any number of equine-assisted activities including hippotherapy, equine-facilitated mental health, driving, interactive vaulting, trail riding, competition, groundwork or stable management. Through a wide variety of educational resources, the association helps individuals start and maintain successful equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs. There are more than 43,000 volunteers, 3,700 instructors, 6,000 therapy horses and thousands of contributors from all over the world helping people at PATH Intl. centers.