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EQUI-KIDS Therapeutic Riding Program was established in 1989 to offer horseback riding lessons to individuals with mental and physical disabling conditions such as Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and Learning Disabilities. Barbara S. Ford founded the program with only one pony and six riders. Ms. Ford recognized that through equine activities, the challenged rider could develop self-awareness, self-confidence and improve their concentration.
Therapeutic riding also offers physical benefits such as muscle strengthening and stretching and increases fine motor skills. The horse provides the challenged rider with a feeling of freedom and independence that may be limited in their everyday life.
New center aims to provide rides for hundreds on waiting list.
by Allison Joyce
TheShopper.com
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