Equine-assisted learning (EAL) simply means an activity that combines horses with learning. In most cases – as at Acorns to Oaks – the learning focuses on social, emotional, and mental health. Here at Acorns to Oaks, we like to bring EAL into many aspects of what we do. Whether it’s group-based social-emotional learning, horsemanship, literacy for preschoolers, or fun events for any age, we believe that horses make it even better.
If you don’t see what you are looking for here, please get in touch! We’re open to all sorts of ideas and partnerships.
Groups
Even before the pandemic, mental health was at a decline. Nowadays, it’s even more complicated, and many people (especially children and adolescents) are behind on the emotional and mental health skills that they would have gained in a “normal” time.
Acorns to Oaks helps to bridge that gap and foster growth through small groups. The horses provide common ground and a fun, welcoming foundation for learning. These classes do not involve riding, so it does not matter whether you have never been on a horse before or you grew up in the saddle. Some of our programs include:
- Horses and Humans: Horses and Humans helps students grow in social skills by being with (but not on) horses. Participants will spend part of each class interacting with horses — for example, learning how to groom a horse – and noticing how horses communicate. These observations are expanded upon, through role play, games, and reflection, to bring greater understanding about how humans communicate too.
- Pony Pride: Pony Pride helps students develop their self-esteem while learning about horses. Part of each class focuses on interacting with horses, usually in a confidence-building activity. Participants will explore topics that bridge their experiences with the horses with their experiences of themselves.
- Managing Anxiety with Horses: Managing Anxiety helps students understand and manage anxiety. Participants will spend part of each class interacting with horses, who often can act as a mirror for emotions. Additional activities, rooted in evidence-based practices, will build self-understanding and coping skills.
All sessions are led by both a licensed riding instructor and an adjustment counselor. No horse experience is required. When available, a half-hour riding lesson can be added before or after for an additional fee.
Partnering
Acorns to Oaks Horsemanship Center is focused on building community partnerships. If you think your organization could benefit from equine-assisted programs, please get in touch.