How do hippotherapy and caring for horses help children with autism, Asperger's syndrome, and ADHD?
How do hippotherapy and caring for horses help children with autism, Asperger's syndrome, and ADHD?
Hippotherapy, or therapy with the aid of horses, offers significant benefits for children diagnosed with conditions such as autism, Asperger's syndrome, and ADHD in terms of their integration, emotional balance, and stability. These children find a place in the world of hippotherapy where they are not judged or corrected, but accepted as they are. HipoBar has become a place where children can find peace, joy, and new ways of communication.
The Story of a Boy with Autism
One example is the story of a boy with autism who has been commuting to HipoBar for a year. At the beginning of his stay, he was very anxious, stuttered, and had trouble concentrating. However, thanks to regular meetings with the horse, he gradually began to relax. The presence of the horse provides him with calm and a sense of security, which enables him to concentrate and communicate better. After a year of therapy, he stopped stuttering and his concentration significantly improved. Moreover, he looks forward to each lesson, and his joy of meeting the horse is evident.
The Story of a Boy with ADHD
Another example is a boy with ADHD who became much more relaxed in the presence of horses. Initially, he struggled with hyperactivity and often stuttered while telling stories. After several months of hippotherapy, he began to tell coherent stories, and his hyperactivity lessened. The horses provide the structured environment he needs to better concentrate and find balance.
Benefits of Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy offers many advantages to children with autism, Asperger's syndrome, and ADHD:
Emotional Balance and Stability
Contact with horses helps children relax and find peace in an environment where they are not judged. The presence of the horse provides safety and stability, which are crucial for these children.
Social Skills
During hippotherapy, children learn important social skills. Communicating with the horse and the trainer helps them develop new ways of interacting with others.
Improved Concentration
Hippotherapy provides structured activities that support better concentration. Children learn to focus their attention and follow instructions, which also aids them in other areas of their life.
Physical Activity
Caring for horses involves physical activity, which is especially beneficial for children with ADHD. It helps them release energy in a healthy way and improves their overall fitness.
Communication Skills
Children learn to communicate not only with the horse but also with the people around them. This helps them find new ways of expressing themselves and improves their language skills.
At HipoBar, we give individual attention to each child, finding the most suitable activities that help them develop the necessary social and communication skills. Horses are not only therapists but also friends who lead children to new opportunities and a better understanding of themselves and the world around them.
HipoBar is a place where dreams of integration and emotional stability become reality. Horses help us, and in return, we bring them joy with our company.