joining the Hearts and Hooves Therapeutic Riding Program

      The Hearts and Hooves riding program is open to people of all ages, with conditions ranging from amputations and autism to mental retardation and muscular dystrophy. There are many special people who can benefit from therapeutic horseback riding, however students are screened and parental permission is a must.

     "I just think the program is a major plus for our children," said teacher Sandra Womack.

     Children with autism respond best to visual communication, she said, and on riding days, they are shown a picture of a horse or of the horse arena on the school grounds.

     Participation has increased vocabulary for some, as well as social skills, and helps develop gross and fine motor skills. Communication skills also improve, as the children learn to follow simple directions doing an activity they enjoy, she said.

     If you live in the Cleveland County, NC area and have a child who you believe may benefit from the Hearts and Hooves Therapeutic Riding Program, you first need to set up a time to have your child screened.

     If you would like to receive more information about joining the program, please contact us.