Union Valley Elementary students in the Adaptive special education classroom spent one hour a day one day a week for five weeks working on a variety of skills at the Reins of Hope therapeutic horseback riding program in Hutchinson, Ks. During their time at Reins of Hope, the horses offered a calming presence to the students while also helping build trust and confidence. They worked on social skills, communication and cooperation and learned valuable lessons about patience, empathy, respect and boundaries. Reins of Hope is a remarkable program that offers significant advantages for working with students in innovative ways. One of the greatest strengths of equine therapy is its adaptability. Sessions were tailored by the instructors to meet the specific needs and goals of the students, while adding a whole new level of physical and personal self-awareness and empowerment for growth. Studies have shown that the rhythmic motion of riding stimulates muscles to help build strength, and can also have a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting overall well-being and a sense of peace.
Reins of Hope is an not-for-profit organization mainly run by volunteers and serves a variety of people with different disabilities. This therapeutic horseback riding program is a service offered for a nominal fee of five dollars per student per lesson, per session. Executive Director Jane Harder shared that they have been able to keep their cost the same and haven’t raised the rate since they started in 1994. This is greatly due to the many volunteers who work countless hours to help provide this service. As an added bonus, the Buhler USD 313 Ad Astra Academies students and staff volunteered their time to assist with horseback riding, as well as working on social skills and building relationships. It was not only beneficial for the students at Union Valley, but also for the students who attend Ad Astra Academies.
Pictured above: Kerry Foster and Owen share information with the RCEC Board of Directors
Kerry Foster, Adaptive Special Education Teacher, and Kari Thiessen, Physical Therapist, both of RCEC, spoke with the RCEC Board of Directors on June 3rd about the benefits Reins of Hope had on their students and the impact it made on their learning. Union Valley Elementary student, Owen Stauffacher, also shared his experience with the Board about how it made him feel stronger and how much confidence he gained.