TROT - Therapeutic Riding and Ongoing Training

Therapeutic Riding

The therapeutic riding program at Carousel is committed to the goal of providing safe and beneficial therapeutic horseback riding to people with physical and cognitive disabilities. It is our mission at to improve the well-being of our students through equine-assisted activities, by encouraging them to set goals, and providing them with the motivation to achieve those goals.

Therapeutic riding is $360 for a six-week session. Call (302) 995-7670 for more information. Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify!  Call the office for more information at 302-995-7670.

The therapeutic riding program at Carousel Park is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International premier accredited center. Lessons are available six days a week (no lessons on Fridays).

Program Impact

Therapeutic riding programs develop relationships between people with special needs, the certified instructor, and a special therapy horse. This creates an opportunity for individuals to reach beyond their disability through a therapeutic riding program.

Benefits fall under the following categories:

• Physical: The horse rhythmically and naturally moves the body in a manner similar to the human gait, improving posture, balance, and muscle control
  
  
•  Cognitive: Improves sequential thought processing, increases the rider’s ability to articulate emotions and develops social awareness
  
  
• Social: Assisted therapeutic riding nurtures a positive self-image. Individuals with disabilities are able to experience more independence, as well as develop an awareness of teamwork. All riders have the ability to learn skills and participate in a recognized sport. Riders are encouraged to develop better self-esteem, which they can take with them and use in their everyday lives

Benefits of equine-assisted therapy include:

• Improved gross and fine motor skills, balance, posture, and coordination
• Increased independence at home and school
• Increased range of motion and muscle tone
• Increased self-esteem, due to the acquisition of skills in a recognized sport

Conditions impacted include (but are not limited to):

• Autism
• Cerebral Palsy
• Developmental Delay
• Down Syndrome
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Sensory Disorders
• Spina Bifida