Who Benefits and How?
The benefits of the children’s riding sessions last well beyond Monday morning, with feedback from parents and schools telling us of improved muscle tone, better concentration and motivation to stick at tasks. Schools believe that our activities allow children to succeed in ways that they cannot do in school.
We monitor the children’s achievements, measuring and recording changes to the riders’ abilities in the areas of Communication, Confidence, Enjoyment, Horsemanship, Physical Changes and Relationships
The children receive an achievement certificate recording their successes, a rosette and a photograph of them with their favourite pony. Apart from the older, teenage riders who may take a few external tests at school, these awards are the only qualifications open to these riders and are highly valued by the children and their families.
There is also a significant ripple effect for parents who say:
- “He just loves his riding, and if he’s happy, we can be happy too.”
- “He loves his Mondays now – smiling all the way to school knowing he’s going riding.”
- “I love Mondays, I can bring him and not have to make any excuses for his behaviour – because you understand him.”
For those living with dementia or cognitive impairment, the Tea With A Pony sessions provide a sensory experience and social interaction which can stimulate memories and feelings, and have a calming effect – and in turn reducing anxiety and stress. Being outdoors helps to regulate the person’s circadian rhythm which, in turn, assists in promoting sleep. Although in its early stages, we have evidence already of the benefits arising – both for participants and carers.
What does the child achieve?
IMPACT AT A GLANCE:
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Improve communication
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Experience more enjoyment
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Show greater confidence
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Experience physical improvement
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