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Therapeutic Riding > Autism
Benefits of Therapeutic Riding and Autism
Shadow Ranch Riding Therapy Center works with autistic children
to bring them the proven benefits from therapeutic riding therapy.
This therapy has shown to positively impact children who have any
type of Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
Horses have a rhythmic gait which promotes speech function in
autistic children. Also, there is interaction between the
rider, side walkers and most obviously with the horse itself.
This triad promotes social interaction and positively reinforces the
child's self worth and sense of accomplishment. Keeping the
same routine, scheduling weekly visits to ride, wearing the same
helmet, going through the same motions promotes their organizational
skills and teaches them commands over the horse. Following
this same routine, also helps teach the concept of time, starting,
riding time and ending.
• Physical Benefits
- Improves strength and endurance
- Increases range of motion
- Improves coordination
• Psychological benefits:
- Promotes independence and
self-control
- Teaches sequential thinking
and spatial awareness
- Motivates by providing
immediate reinforcement for effort
- Develops pride in new
abilities
• Social Benefits
- Promotes cooperation and
interaction
- Improves listening skills and
attention spans
- Provides opportunities to
meet new friends
- Provides a fun, challenging
experience
Have questions? Need help?
To become involved, please contact
volunteers@shadowranchtx.com
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