“Sounds” is a pretty generic topic for a blog post. How does this apply to therapeutic riding lessons? Why is it important?
Using sounds in lessons is a way to reach lesson objectives and to change up a stale lesson plan. I’ll give you a few examples of how to do both of these is today’s post.
Continue readingWhat You Need:
Buckets
Barrels (or something to place bucket on)
Toys/Rings
One special toy
I’ve talked on the blog before about playing games related to the season or holiday because it keeps me from getting bored. I’ve been teaching for fourteen years and need to find ways to stay fresh! This is a great game I like to play around St. Patrick’s Day, but it can be played any time.
Continue readingWhat You Need:
Box or Treat Bin
Treats
This game can apply to any gift-giving time of the year; I am using it in lessons this week for Valentine’s Day. I set up the lesson to reward the horses immediately, but it can be adjusted to whatever works best in your program. If there is an off-horse part of your lesson, gathering art supplies on the horse and then making a card for a caregiver would be a great idea!
Continue readingWhat You Need:
Alphabet Letters
This is a fun one! It’s interactive for the rider and works on life and riding skills simultaneously. It teaches life skills like communication, patience, pattern recognition, and cognitive understanding. It teaches riding skills like stopping, steering, balance, and forethought.
Continue readingWhat You Need:
Cutouts of leaves (or real leaves)
String/clothespin (some way to hang leaves)
Muck bucket/trashcan/toy basket
I like to give options for all my games so that you can adapt it to your own facility. As you can see by my list above, this game is very adaptable! I like to add seasonal games to my lesson plans because it keeps it interesting for me and relevant for riders.
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The Equine Impact 