The Programs of Horse Power

Lesson

Horse Power and its professional and certified teaching staff offer a wide range of lessons which meet the therapeutic, educational, social and recreational needs of riders beginning at age 4, often going up to age 70. We offer lessons for children and adults, regardless of disability.

Horse Power is proud of its string of therapy horses and ponies, all of which have been carefully selected and trained to be safe, effective and pleasant equine partners for their students. With a good variety of rings and a lovely big indoor arena, Horse Power lessons can take place regardless of the weather or time of year. Lessons begin as early as 10AM and often go into the evening hours. Lessons are offered for individuals who need a great deal of specialized attention in a private lesson situation. The majority of the lessons are conducted for groups of 3 up to 6 students, ensuring that everyone gets personalized attention and good instruction. Lessons are run in a block of either 6, 8 or 9 weeks, depending on the time of year.

A team of well trained and caring Volunteers assist in many of the classes, providing good cheer, extra helping hands and vital horse handling. With the combination of excellent instructors, involved volunteers, a great facility and terrific horses, students made excellent progress, staying safe while being challenged.

Best of all, the bond of friendship and connection that happens between the students, teachers, horses and volunteers is where the magic truly happens.. Bodies are strengthened. Friendships flourish. Spirits are given hope. Lives are changed forever.

We invite you to call Horse Power today to see if we have the right spot for you or your loved one. We offer Equine Facilitated Activities, Equine Facilitated Learning and Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy. We also accept students who have been referred by Physical or Occupational Therapists, who see major gains in their clients, thanks to the experience at the farm.

We offer traditional mounted therapeutic riding where the rider may either ride independently, with a leader, with a spotter or with sidewalkers, depending on their challenges. In addition, we offer a therapeutic driving program for those who are unable to ride or who prefer to drive carriages. Finally, we also offer a Interactive Vaulting program for those who wish to try a new ‘cool’ sport. This is gymnastics on the moving horse and is done in a small group. Interactive Vaulting and Therapeutic Carriage Driving offer the same benefits as mounted work in the areas of improved teamwork, balance, self esteem, ability to follow directions, physical fitness and coordination.

Samples of types of classes offered at Horse Power in any given season are:

*Groups for adolescents with emotional and educational challenges from therapeutic residential treatment facilities.
*Groups for children who have been removed from their homes due to physical or sexual abuse and neglect. *Groups for youngsters who have physical and cognitive challenges and are matched by developmental levels, ranging from 6 to 19.
*Small groups for adults with severe cognitive challenges such as Mental Retardation, Autism and Developmental Delays.
*Small groups for adults with Head Injuries and Stokes who either live at home or in a group home. *Specialty groups or private lessons happen around issues such as Grief and Loss; Divorce; Depression; Anxiety or returning from active duty in the military.
*Whole classes of school age children who come with both severe academic deficits and often accompanying physical challenges. These students with their teachers and aids to learn both riding and academic skills about horses and their care.
*Individuals come with a whole range of mental health, physical and cognitive challenges that truly respond to the healing power of the horse, whether leading, grooming, riding, driving or just sitting.

Of course, we are always flexible and open to forming a new class or private lesson to meet the specific needs of you, your child or your group. Please call us at the farm or email to find out the current types of classes and groups being offered for the coming season. Also, refer to the calendar for current lesson dates. Prices vary depending on size of group and amount of staff needed to safely and successfully meet the needs of each student. The most common range of lesson prices for each season is between $350 and $450 for a 10 session block. Again, please contact the office to receive current rate sheet and availability.