As a new instructor sometimes I get really nervous about teaching. I feel overwhelmed at all there is to know, feel pressured by myself to be this amazing teacher full of profound knowledge and wisdom, feel inadequate. At times like these I need to remember that really, all the kids want to do is just … Continue reading
Rett Syndrome
I have a very young student with Rett Syndrome. Since I didn’t know anything about it, and she can’t communicate much, I did some research… What is Rett Syndrome? “Rett syndrome is a rare inherited disease that causes developmental and nervous system problems, mostly in girls. It’s related to autism. Babies with Rett syndrome seem to … Continue reading
Teaching Tips I
Here’s a bunch of teaching tips that I found the most important and helpful preparing for my PATH Registered Level Instructor Certification, in no particular order. Lots of Hows and Whys Praise Specifics (don’t just say “good job”) Teach from the middle of the arena Mount and Dismount using task analysis Progression throughout lesson Check girth … Continue reading
Responding to Transference: Opening up Relational Moments
I read an article today about responding to transference with your students, which is when they attribute their own feelings onto their horses or other people. For example your student says, “I think Buster is nervous,” when in reality the horse’s ears are lax and his eyes half closed. According to the author, “your response will … Continue reading
The Lesson Plan – Basic
This is the basic lesson plan template I always work from. It’s a good one! THE LESSON PLAN – BASIC Date: Instructor: Short & Long term Goals: Objective of Lesson: (include riding skill, action, measurement, conditions) Teacher Preparation/ Equipment Needed: Rider Horse Tack Leader SW 1 SW 2 Ring set up (Draw arena setup) Prep … Continue reading
Valentine’s Day Games
Here are some ideas I got from classroom Valentine’s Day games. Each can be modified in many ways. HEART PUZZLES GAME Cut out of paper hearts of different colors and sizes. Cut each heart into 4 pieces and scatter them around the arena. You could hide them on obstacles so kids have to reach, put … Continue reading
Welcome!
Hello and welcome! In 2011 I began the journey to become a PATH Registered Level Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor. On this journey I have discovered there is a lack of resources on the internet for lesson plans, riding adaptations, games and patterns for therapeutic riding. As someone who learns a lot through other peoples’ experiences and … Continue reading