Definition below (courtesy of Leif Hallberg,2019)

Terminology is so important. I am not a therapist, so I provide Equine Assisted Learning. Equine-assisted learning (EAL) is a non-therapy skills-based service that focuses on teaching life-skills, social skills, communication skills or leadership skills while facilitating personal growth and increased self-awareness through both mounted and non-mounted interactions with horses. Services are provided by educators, in consultation with Occupational Therapists, Speech/Language Pathologists/ Psychologists or Psychiatrists.

• Using miniature horse or quarter horse to support emotional and social development.
• Support for self-regulation or sensory processing.
• Useful for calming or meditative skills with younger children on the spectrum.
• Also, other animals available to be used in therapeutic ways. (Dog, chickens, ducks, cats)
• Support for Families in choosing a pet.
• Support families through OT advise with children with pet/animal anxieties

Introduction to Equine Assisted Learning

8 sessions that introduce participants to

• The Zones of Regulation
• Safe practices when working with horses
• How to groom horses
• Calming practices (eg breathing, relaxation)
• Our 5 senses
• Reflective practice

Equine Assisted Learning Part 2

8 sessions that participants learn about

• The Zones of Regulation- self management
• Safe practices when working with horses
• Grooming skills for horses
• Leading horses in an arena or round yard
• Calming practices (eg grounding, breathing, relaxation)
• Reflective practice

Equine Assisted Learning Part 3

8 sessions that participants learn about

• The Zones of Regulation- self management, strategy development
• Safe practices when working with horses
• Grooming skills for horses
• Leading horses in an arena or round yard around obstacles (eg training bridge)
• Being led on horseback in an arena or round yard
• Calming practices (eg grounding, breathing, relaxation)
• Reflective practice

Equine Assisted Learning Part 4

• The Zones of Regulation- self management, strategy development, implementing within daily life
• Safe practices when working with horses
• Grooming skills for horses- braiding, clipping, washing
• Leading horses in an arena or round yard
• Being led on horseback in an arena or round yard
• Beginning riding skills in round yard with riding coach.
• Calming practices (eg grounding, breathing, relaxation)
• Reflective practice
• This stage continues for as long as the participant requires or in interested in developing their skills.