Schools Rule : Eaton RESA therapeutic horseback riding program

“It’s not just about the riding, it’s about the social interaction and the sense of belonging that comes with it.”

The Eaton Special Riding Association: Empowering Students with Disabilities

The Eaton Special Riding Association (ESRA) is a non-profit organization that has been providing equine-assisted therapy and riding lessons to students with disabilities in Eaton County, Michigan, since 1976. The association’s mission is to empower students with disabilities to reach their full potential through the therapeutic benefits of horse riding.

A Unique Approach to Therapy

ESRA’s approach to therapy is centered around the idea that horses can be a powerful tool for building confidence, social skills, and emotional well-being in students with disabilities. By providing a safe and supportive environment, ESRA’s instructors and volunteers work with students to develop their riding skills, as well as their social and emotional abilities. Key aspects of ESRA’s approach include: + Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) sessions, which focus on the therapeutic benefits of horse riding + Riding lessons, which teach students how to ride and care for horses + Social skills training, which helps students develop important life skills such as communication, empathy, and self-awareness + Emotional support and guidance, which provides students with a safe and supportive environment to express themselves

The Impact of ESRA on Students

ESRA’s programs have had a profound impact on the students who participate in them.

Riding Horses in the Classroom: A Unique Learning Experience

Meadowview 6th graders are taking a unique approach to learning by riding horses in the classroom. This hands-on approach is not only fun but also provides students with a wide range of benefits that extend far beyond the classroom walls.

Benefits of Riding Horses

Develops balance, coordination, and spatial awareness

Improves communication skills and teamwork

Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy

Fosters a sense of responsibility and self-discipline

Provides a unique perspective on life and the world around them

The Science Behind Riding Horses

Riding horses is not just about sitting on a horse and holding on for dear life. There is a lot of science behind it. The way a horse moves, the way it responds to commands, and the way it interacts with its rider are all governed by complex physical and biological principles. Equine biomechanics: The way a horse’s body is structured and functions is crucial to its movement and behavior. Understanding equine biomechanics can help riders develop a deeper appreciation for the horse’s physiology and improve their riding skills. Equine psychology: Horses are social animals that live in complex societies with their own communication systems, social hierarchies, and emotional lives. Understanding equine psychology can help riders develop a stronger bond with their horses and improve their riding skills. * Equine physiology: The way a horse’s body functions is critical to its movement and behavior.**

The Impact on Students

Riding horses in the classroom has a profound impact on students.

It’s a bond that can’t be broken,” says one volunteer. “It’s not just about riding horses, it’s about the relationships you build and the memories you make with the horses and the other kids.”

The Power of Equine-Assisted Therapy

Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is a form of therapy that utilizes horses to promote physical, emotional, and social growth in individuals, particularly children. This unique approach has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason.

Benefits of EAT

Improves physical coordination and balance

Enhances emotional regulation and self-awareness

Fosters social skills and relationships

Boosts self-confidence and self-esteem

Encourages empathy and compassion

How EAT Works

EAT typically involves a series of sessions with a trained equine professional, where participants engage with horses in various activities such as grooming, riding, and groundwork.

The Eaton Special Riding Association Program

The Eaton Special Riding Association (ESRA) is a unique program that offers free riding lessons to students with disabilities living in Eaton County, Michigan. This program is designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities to develop their riding skills and build confidence.

Benefits of the Program

The ESRA program offers numerous benefits to participants, including:

Improved physical and emotional well-being

Enhanced social skills and relationships

Increased independence and self-esteem

Opportunities for personal growth and development

How the Program Works

The ESRA program is volunteer-based, which means that it relies on the generosity and dedication of local volunteers to provide riding lessons and support to participants.