Today, I spent three wonderful hours at a horse therapy centre with eight students with disabilities. They all live together and work in town on various projects, and each brought their own personality, abilities and unique way of experiencing the world.
They helped saddle and brush the horses before taking part in games and exercises, including balancing a lime on a spoon while riding. There was plenty of concentration, laughter and joy, especially when the horses picked up speed! Some students wanted cuddles and photographs, while others simply delighted in the experience.
The two autistic, non-verbal students had additional support and did not ride independently. Watching everyone participate in their own way was a beautiful reminder that inclusion is about creating opportunities for connection, achievement and joy.
The horses were patient, gentle and wonderfully responsive, seeming to understand that every rider needed something different. I arrived expecting to help with leading the horses only, but left feeling I had received the greatest gift.
I’ll be back next Thursday and Friday, and I’m so grateful for this new experience.
