The North Country R.I.D.E. Autism Program is Sponsored by the Minnesota Horse Council

North Country R.I.D.E. received a grant from the Minnesota Horse Council in the summer of 2006 to develop a therapeutic horseback riding lesson program for children with autism and to document results.

Social Stories were written for the parents to read to their children before the class to help them prepare for their lesson. The lessons and classes were adjusted for children with autism to help with their sensitivities such as sound and light. The horses swaying movement while walking was beneficial to the riders, and one common result was increased calmness. Special music was played - slow, classical movement, which was soothing to the riders. A special clock was used to show the riders how much time was left in their class.

 
Parents filled out a pre- and post- evaluation questionnaire. Improvements were measured in the Pilot Program. Results include:

• 11% of riders showed improvement interacting with others
• 28% of riders showed improved eye contact when requesting attention
• 33% of the riders decreased problem sleep issues
• 50% of the riders reduced their seeking out of tight places to sit or lay
• For further information and pilot program details, download the North Country R.I.D.E. Autism Program Report
• Does your child seek out swinging, swaying, etc. throughout the day - 33% showed improvement
• Does your child have fears of specific things - 28% showed improvement
• Does your child repeat questions or conversations over and over - 39% showed improvement
• Does your child insist on keeping a rigid routine - 22% showed improvement
• Does your child avoid people - 22% showed improvement
• Does your child cover ears to avoid sounds - 17% showed improvement

See full Autism Report...