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Hippotherapy |
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Hippotherapy |
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What is HIPPOTHERAPY?
The HIPPOTHERAPY sessions are based on individual goals determined for each child by their therapist. Each horse is carefully chosen according to its size and movement. Emphasis is placed heavily on achieving therapy goals, versus teaching the client/child horseback riding skills. Many different developmental positions and/or special equipment may be used to help the children meet their therapy goals. We follow all guidelines established through N.A.R.H.A. (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) with safety a prime consideration. Why is HIPPOTHERAPY Beneficial? The three-dimensional movement of the horse closely simulates the movement of the human pelvis while walking. The horse's movement is unique and valuable as a therapeutic tool. This movement, along with the warmth generated from the live horse, promotes many physical benefits, such as:
HIPPOTHERAPY also provides many sensory experiences that treat the whole child, and addresses the multiple special needs of children. The children benefit from receiving therapy services in a natural environment, and from creating a human to animal bond with the horse. Who can benefit from HIPPOTHERAPY?
In our program, children with mild to severe degrees of involvement demonstrate success in reaching their therapy goals. A physician's order and approval is required for each client involved in our Hippotherapy program. Goal-directed treatment for a variety of pediatric issues:
Where can my child receive HIPPOTHERAPY? Children's Therapy Plus, Inc. may utilize HIPPOTHERAPY during the child's therapy session. If you are interested in finding out more about Hippotherapy or whether or not your child might benefit from this type of therapy, please contact: Penny Clark at Children's Therapy Plus, Inc.
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The word
"HIPPO" means horse. "Hippotherapy" literally means "Therapy with
the aid of a horse.” At Children's Therapy Plus, Inc., Hippotherapy
sessions are directed and performed by one or all of the following
therapists: Physical, Occupational and Speech Pathologist. All
horses are trained and handled by a Certified Instructor in
Therapeutic horseback riding.
Children with
various impairments or delays in development may benefit from
Hippotherapy. Those delays may be in the areas of: Gross motor
development (rolling, sitting, walking), Fine motor development
(eating, dressing, writing), or Speech development (language,
articulation, memory).