Horses as therapy

Autism is a developmental disorder that affects the development of the brain, particularly in the areas of communication and social interaction. Symptoms can develop from 18-24 months for 'classic autism'. When a child's development is normal for the first 2-4 years of their life and then develops symptoms, it's referred to as Childhood Developmental Disorder. Asperger's Syndrome is a milder form of autism involving significantly less developmental challenges. People with Asperger's generally have good communication skills and repetitious behaviors may be much subtler. Symptoms include: • difficulty with communication, both verbal and non-verbal • difficulty with attention span and concentration • repetitious behaviour, such as obsessive rocking, flapping hands, repeating words, or arranging objects • difficulty with social skills and group activities • difficulty making and maintaining eye contact • difficulty with basic skills such as dressing, eating, brushing teeth, and bathing While the cause of Autism is still unknown, it is generally thought to happen due to abnormalities in the brain's structure or shape. People with autism have a wide range of symptoms, so the condition is referred to as a 'spectrum' disorder; involving a group of disorders with a range of similar symptoms. Within the animal kingdom these such 'disorders' mean very little and as fear is a strong prey animal emotion and one of the few many Autistic people can identify with; it is interesting that the two can have a mutally beneficial effect on each other. It is becoming widely documented of the amazing therapeutic results horses are having on 'spectrum' children; they range from: • gaining a sense of self-confidence • improving communication • improving concentration • improving socialization • improving patience • improving fine motor coordination • improving sensory integration The benefits experienced by children with mental and emotional disabilities are also due to the special relationship they develop with the horse. The unconditional, non-judgmental aspect of the bond between the horse and the child encourages the child to form an attachment and interaction with another living being, which is especially difficult for autistic children to achieve. One of the greatest benefits of this type of therapy is the enjoyment children get out of it. They don't even realise that they are participating in a therapeutic activity - it's just a lot of fun! Equine therapy gives autistic children a sense of themselves, their bodies, and increased contact and interaction with the surrounding world. The child's self-confidence is greatly increased and they form a sense of competence by learning how to interact and work with their horse. These children quickly form attachments and relationships with the horse they handle and this behaviour is then expanded to include teachers, trainers, therapists, and family members.