Rainbow Horses Learning Centre

General information

Many different approaches to working with horses have been developed internationally with different names: Equine Therapy, Hippotherapy, Equine Facilitated Learning, Equine Assisted Therapy.

We use the term 'Equine Interaction' as our approach is based on the interactions that occur in sessions between the child with autism and the horses, as well as between the child and the parents, siblings and workers.

Sue is a certified professional in The Horse Boy Method™, trained by Rupert Isaacson (see links to Horse Boy websites).

We also use music (singing 'commentary songs' as well as more common songs), sung in time to the horse's movement, to engage the child and to provide repeated, structured language.

Research has shown that being with horses, and horse-riding, has the potential to be of benefit to children with autism in many areas including verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction, motivation, attention and eye contact. It also improves motor skills, assists sensory integration, increases confidence and has a calming effect; as well as being a fun and healthy physical activity!