Equine Assisted Riding

The Equine Assisted Riding (EAR) program is an advanced equine therapy program utilizing horsemanship skills required to groom, tack up, and ride a horse independently. This exciting new program will serve riders who have graduated from the current Equine Assisted Therapy program and individuals with special needs who are new to Tara’s Chance. Tailored to each individual rider to best accomplish their therapeutic goals the program includes a wide variety of therapies and activities both mounted and unmounted on the horse.

Students ride in a saddle and dictate the horse's movements. Riders participate in an hour of therapy sessions each week. The program offers instruction to riders of all skill levels, from providing someone's first contact with a horse to advanced independent riders. The goals are accomplished through horsemanship skills including approaching a horse, haltering, leading, tying, grooming, tacking up, mounting, exercising a horse, barn maintenance, riding, and more. Through these activities, students will connect with their horses which is a powerful way to reduce stress, improve mood, and create a learning environment that opens the path to physical and cognitive growth and healing. Students will make strides in problem-solving, independence, empathy, assertiveness, communication, and social skills.

This program serves a broad range of individuals with special needs. The program will serve individuals with Autism, ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, emotional or behavioral issues, head trauma, and other special needs.