Programs
Programming at SMILES runs in four 8-week sessions throughout the year. Lessons are offered on a weekly basis and are staffed by our PATH Intl. certified instructors. Prospective participants must be at least four years of age and within our weight limits. Classes are offered Monday through Saturday at varying times. Waitlist times vary depending on program interest and time of year.
For more information on eligibility guidelines, please review the Client Handbook.
Client HandbookTherapeutic/Adaptive riding lessons are equestrian skill-based lessons. The focus of lessons is skill development and progression while improving the participant’s physical, cognitive, emotional, sensory and/or social skills. Instructors develop unique lessons plans to meet the needs of participants, and at the same time, make lessons fun and interesting for everyone.
Participants attend once per week for a 45-minute lesson with the help of trained volunteers, in a small-group setting of up to six. Group lessons are beneficial due to the opportunity to interact and learn from others and families.
Benefits of Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding
- The movement of the horse mimics the human gait by being rhythmic, repeatable, and three-dimensional – all movements needed to stimulate normal walking patterns.
- Components such as music, colors, numbers, and shape recognition are built into sessions to stimulate learning.
- Participants can improve their communication and social interactions as they interact with peers, volunteers, instructors, and horses.
- Participants receive a multitude of other physical benefits, such as increased strength, increased flexibility and range of motion, and improved balance.
