Therapy

I got a new job working with troubled teenagers and part of their therapy is working with horses. this program never really had anyone who knew much about horses until they hired me so they can now expand the program farther than trail riding I have lots of ideas for ground work games, riding games etc. but need lots more ideas. any and all are welcome!

e.g. one person is blindfolded leading a *VERY BOMBPROOF* horse the other person explains obstacles the blindfolded person needs to do therefore building trust and teamwork.

You can teach them show grooming techniques, like braiding or something fancy to encourage them to take pride in their horse. Also, you can use washable paints and have a painting party on the horses. I worked at a camp where we did that. Ribbon races; where two people are riding and each holds the end of a string and together they race to the finish trying to get the best time (for more advanced riders). Some may not want to let go of the ribbon or string and fall off. For trail rides, to scare away small animals that may spook a horse, you can have them make horse necklaces with jingle bells. Simon says, water balloon wars on horseback (even bomb proof horses flinch though so be careful but its a lot of fun) Equitation patterns, mini shows with classes not just based on the horse, but others that play to every ones strengths without making sure everyone gets a "free" ribbon. Teens and even some children can be competitive and I know my lil sister did not like the lead line class that gave them all blues because she wanted to win it herself! Riding without stirrups, riding with the horse on a lunge line and the rider has no reins, they learn leg communication. If I think of more I will add it

One Response

1. blazesstargirl Says:
   February 26th, 2010 at 1:36 pm

   You can teach them show grooming techniques, like braiding or something fancy to encourage them to take pride in their horse. Also, you can use washable paints and have a painting party on the horses. I worked at a camp where we did that. Ribbon races; where two people are riding and each holds the end of a string and together they race to the finish trying to get the best time (for more advanced riders). Some may not want to let go of the ribbon or string and fall off. For trail rides, to scare away small animals that may spook a horse, you can have them make horse necklaces with jingle bells. Simon says, water balloon wars on horseback (even bomb proof horses flinch though so be careful but its a lot of fun) Equitation patterns, mini shows with classes not just based on the horse, but others that play to every ones strengths without making sure everyone gets a "free" ribbon. Teens and even some children can be competitive and I know my lil sister did not like the lead line class that gave them all blues because she wanted to win it herself! Riding without stirrups, riding with the horse on a lunge line and the rider has no reins, they learn leg communication. If I think of more I will add it
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