Horse Therapy Rocks for Autism!

 Kaden has been back in the Saddle for a few months now.  We took a break over the Holidays and Winter months.  The place he rides also had to close their doors for awhile, thankfully it was during the Holidays and cooler months last year. 

His riding skills have improved so much.  I have to say, I was a little doubtful on the whole horse therapy idea.  But, I am super glad that we gave it a try.  We first heard about it from a friend that has MS.  She had been riding there for awhile and she had seen kiddos out riding too.  I called them and they had a great, affordable program for Kiddos with Autism!  Yipeeee!

I think it has gave him confidence and something positive to look forward to each week.  And it helps with coordination, core strength and social skills.  A riding day has not come up that he wasn't ready to go with a BIG Smile on his face!!!

Bye Bye Horse Therapy

 I am still finding the words to tell Kaden that more then likely he will not be enjoying Horse Therapy anymore.  The place he rides at is wonderful and it is unfortunate that they are in a battle with a few local banks over money they were promised when they agreed to house a huge amount of horses for them.  He has had to miss the past month and almost daily he asks if tomorrow is the day. 
It's not a for sure thing right now, but they have been told by their lawyers to not run any programs at this time.  So, for now he will have to settle for a bike ride....which is all good too.  :)

To Groom or not to Groom

Kaden LOVES going to ride the horses.  Some of the things we are working on while we are there is his social skills, communication and body awareness.  We thought he would enjoy grooming Sunny before going out for his ride. This would be a great way to show affection to the horse and give him a sensory outlet.  After brushing for only a minute he stopped, without saying a word.  And Mahala asked him if it was fun, he just nodded his head no.  I was surprised, I thought he would like it.  But, he was just ready to ride.  In a few weeks we will give it another try.

Aspergers in the Saddle

Today we are going horse back riding for the 2nd time.  Kaden loves it!!!  Here he is riding for the 1st time.  Normally he has so much anxiety around other people.  And in the begging he was scared hidden behind me.  But, there is something about animals that soothes him.  He seems to focus more and is more willing to take direction or try something new.  Maybe I should keep a horse i the house.  HAHAHAHA