I was interested to learn recently that at Smugglers' Notch Resort (where I work), the adaptive program director has added horseback riding to the curriculum for the kids who visit Smugglers' for a vacation with their families in the summer. This new initiative adds a new and exciting dimension to the Resort's program, called SNAP (Smugglers' Notch Adaptive Program). Alisa Anderson, SNAP's program director, had prior experience with a therapeutic riding program and wanted to give it a go at Smuggs.
Alisa's research at the Champlain Adaptive Mounted Program (called CHAMP) based at Good Hope Farm in South Hero, Vermont convinced her that this program was a good fit with SNAP. The instructors at CHAMP and the center itself are certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Inc. (NARHA).
Six children can attend each session, three riding at one time for 45 minutes. Each rider is aided by an instructor, a person who leads the horse, and two side-walkers. The children learn to steer the horse with the reins at walk and trot according to their ability and comfort level.
While the kids in the group are waiting their turn to ride, aides show them how to use the grooming tools and apply the strokes. The horses used for the therapeutic program are specially chosen for their gentleness. It sounds like a great opportunity for children in the SNAP program at Smugglers' as well as anyone locally who would like to take advantage of CHAMP's services or offer their own services as a volunteer. The website is www.vtchamp.org.
It seems there's been quite a bit written recently about horse therapy for children with autism; in fact, I just read a review of a book entitled "The Horse Boy," chronicling a father's story about the effect interaction with horses had on his son's autism.
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