EQUINE HOLIDAY ACADEMY…

Monday - Friday: 9am - 3pm (Additional Hours By Arrangement) -

  • Developing a deeper understanding of Equine Care and Nutrition

  • Equine ground exercises and games

  • Tack maintenance and preparation for riding

  • Daily group riding lesson - Design and construction of obstacle course - Morning and afternoon mindfulness sessions (how to be fully present with oneself)

  • Equine learning activities also include: Poetry, Art, Reading, Writing and Movies

IDENTIFYING AND COPING WITH FEELINGS:

horses provide humans with many opportunities to identify, experience and cope with emotions. At Stable Hearts we know horses have a unique ability to sense emotions and react accordingly. If a participant is angry or aggressive, the horse may become obstinate. If a person is anxious, the horse may get skittish. But when approached by a child or adult who is open and calm, ordinarily the horse will respond in kind. Witnessing a horse’s response promotes self-awareness and can help participants see themselves in a more realistic way.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS:

some children may have difficulty relating or getting close to other people, yet manage to establish close bonds with horses. Horses do not speak, but they are excellent communicators. Learning to understand horse behaviour can help a child learn how others function in the world and the way their behaviour impacts others. Exercises as simple as haltering, leading and grooming teach children how to approach others with respect and awareness.

SETTING BOUNDARIES:

without any words at all, horses make it clear when someone has crossed their boundaries. Trying to control or dominate will not work with a horse. Similarly, being extremely detached or passive can make it difficult to lead a horse and will deter the horse from complying with a request. When appropriate, facilitators at Stable Hearts draw on metaphor’s for learning opportunities whenever possible.

OVERCOMING FEARS:

horses are large animals, which can bring up unmet needs, fears, past trauma and feelings of inadequacy or lack of control. Our participants commonly fear that the horse won’t like them, won’t pick them, or could hurt them physically or emotionally. Rather than giving in to their usual reaction – to escape or get defensive, participants on all our programmes are encouraged to (learn to) tolerate and process the emotion. In our safe environment, children learn to face their fears and develop confidence in their ability to overcome challenges. Empowered by these experiences, many participants develop the confidence to address other fears and transfer these lessons to day-to- day life.

TRUST:

horses are soothing, gentle animals. They are straightforward in their interactions without lying or manipulating. They do not judge or blame. Their presence alone can promote growth. Our environment invites participants to be open to new possibilities, to build relationships and to ask for help when needed

Enquire through our contact page or Call or Text Michelle to find out more

Michelle 027 576 8082

SADDLE CLUB WEEKENDS

Stable Hearts provide children of all ages an opportunity to become a member of Saddle Club - for many this maybe the closest they ever become to owning their own horse or pony. Activities include group riding and incorporate all activities associated with owning a horse or pony. Children gain a deeper appreciation of horsemanship and develop relationship skills in a safe professional environment