Project R.I.D.E. is a wonderful program that provides therapeutic horseback riding for disabled individuals of all ages (3 and up.) Julia has been a part of this program since she began school last month and absolutely LOVES her time at Project R.I.D.E.
In addition to helping improve Julia's balance and coordination, therapeutic horseback riding provides her with an excellent source of vestibular and proprioceptive input. The gait of the horse mimics walking motions for Julia, which (in theory) will help with motor planning for walking. (The repetitive motions of her legs moving up/down/up/down as she rides.)
Regardless of how she is being benefited physically, emotionally Julia is having a ball! She loves her time at Project R.I.D.E. and is developing great relationships with her sidewalkers, instructor, the horse handlers and the animal. She signs "thank you" after each session and has learned how to pat the horse's neck to tell him to "walk on." She gets very excited about this and often the sidewalkers have to tell her to "Wait, Julia, Poncho can't walk on right now." Considering that a few months ago she couldn't be in the same area with a large animal without having a meltdown this is great!
Our older girls (Victoria, Susanna, and Alyssa) all volunteer at Project R.I.D.E. at least once a week, and often more frequently. They love the time that they spend working and know that they are helping to make a significant positive contribution.
How blessed we are to have these great resources available to us.
www.projectride.org/ProjectRIDEDesc.htm
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