Giant Steps

Christine’s Dream Equine Therapy Program at Giant Steps, in partnership with Rich Harvest Farms, is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) Center. All program activities are conducted under the instruction of a PATH International-certified instructor.

Therapeutic riding helps individuals with physical, emotional, behavioral and cognitive challenges by utilizing the movement of the horse to benefit the rider.  Additionally, Equine Assisted Activities provide opportunities for experiential education, vocational skills development, and recreational skill development.  Interested participants must be at least 4 years old.

Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies include:

  • Therapeutic Horseback Riding
  • Grooming and Non-Riding Horsemanship Skills
  • Vocational Skills
  • Educational Opportunities

Benefits of Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies include, but are not limited to:

  • Physical:
    • Improved motor skills, and increased strength, balance and range of motion
  • Cognitive:
    • Improve motor planning, attention span, following directions
  • Social/Emotional:
    • Promotes independence, self-confidence, self-control

Staffing:

  • Lessons are taught by a certified PATH Intl. instructor
  • Volunteers, trained and supervised by the PATH International-certified instructor, assist riders and instructor during lessons
    • Volunteers are screened for best fit within the program and population
    • Volunteers receive detailed training as well as continuing education