Our Programs
Horses for All
This program brings the magic of horses to children of all abilities.
In the Horses for All workshop, children ages 6+ get the chance to interact with horses in a safe, inclusive, home-like environment.
From the ground* we’ll:
Learn about horse behavior, body language, and communication
Practice basic horsemanship like safe handling, haltering, leading, etc.
Groom and love on our sanctuary horses 🤍
*This is an unmounted class that does not involve horseback riding
Free class with suggested donation of $15 per child. However, no family will be turned away for inability to pay.
Saturday, September 6th | Lexington, VA (address given upon registration)
9:30am-11:00am (ages 6-10) | 11:30am-1:00pm (ages 10+)
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Why Horses for All?
Horses for All was created to help solve problems around accessibility:
Financial: The equestrian world is expensive! For many children who want to be around horses, their dream is out of reach because of financial constraints
Ability: For children with disabilities (both hidden and visible) therapeutic riding programs can carry long waitlists and significant cost that’s often not covered by insurance (see above!). Even for those who simply want a traditional horse program most are not sensitive to the unique needs of children with disabilities, especially those who are neurodivergent
As a neurodivergent family living with multiple disabilities, we wanted to create a safe and affirming space for children of all abilities to experience the magic of horses in a low-pressure environment.
Even without riding, time spent with horses offers numerous physical and mental health benefits including confidence building and nervous system regulation.
Inclusion is our #1 goal 🤍
Inclusive activities —like our Horses for All workshop— help children with and without disabilities. When we include all children they learn acceptance and understanding of other people, that each person has unique abilities and perspectives, and that different doesn’t mean less. Inclusive programs give children of all abilities the chance to gain friendship skills, positive self-image, peer models, acceptance of diversity, and respect and empathy for others.
Inclusion allows children with special needs to have equitable opportunities to participate in the same types of activities as typically-abled children.