As much as humans, especially therapists, do our best to offer a safe space for clients to explore deep emotional hurts and painful experiences, it can be uncomfortable for children to openly share their thoughts.
Building therapeutic rapport can take time, working toward building trust and practicing vulnerability in session. Having the horse present may offer sense of peace, as they only will react to the child’s behavior and emotions with no threat or bias or any judgement of their emotional experience.
Horses are keen observers, vigilant and sensitive to movement and emotion. They often mirror a clients behavior or emotions, conveying understanding and connection that allows the child to feel safe.
This also allows for children to maintain a sense of self-awareness, using the horses behavior and interactions for feedback and opportunities to check in and process what is happening in that moment.
Benefits of the program include
- Reduced aggression.
- Improved focus.
- Improved adjustment to routines and guidelines.
- Increase in self-esteem.
- Increase in self-respect.
- Friendships feeling less stressful.
- Emotional awareness
- Social skills
- Impulse control
- Confidence
- Trust and empathy
- Problem solving skills
Playtime with Bambi and Dreamy, the mom and daughter mini horses
Bambi was born in Noordhoek and has stayed by her mom, Dreamy’s side ever since. Bambi and Dreamy are registered American Miniature Horses, both around 90cm tall. Dreamy has kindly worked with children as a therapeutic mini for over 18 years and Bambi has big plans not only to work with children in Noordhoek but to assist by spreading joy at children’s hospitals and frail care facilities around the Western Cape.
Globally Recognised: Equimotial
Equimotional is a UK founded and globally recognised learning experience that support mindfulness and emotional wellbeing by utalising bright, colorful and fun illustrations and easy to understand lessons in a range of booklets which children will get to take home.
Equimotional’s aim is to provide a safe , joyful and experiential learning space for people to grow & develop in a non judgemental environment.
Double The Fun with Gentle Giant Big Ben
Our very special Big Ben is an endangered breed called a Clydesdale. Despite his enormous size, Clydesdales have a very laid-back, “happy” disposition which are given the nick name “The Gentle Giants”.
Here at Animal Play therapy we have custom made a double seated saddle where two people can ride Big Ben at the same time. This is suited mostly for a parent with a young child, disabled and special needs children where the child can be supported by the adult rider behind.
“The unique double-seated saddle pad offers children exciting opportunities for new movement experiences and positively influences their movement qualities. Some observable movement changes were: encouraging symmetry, adaptation to rhythm, mastery of riding skills and improved postural control. A fun-filled activity providing a unique and close connection with the horse while still feeling secure regardless of riding ability due to being partnered with another rider. This would help to modulate the child and improve behavioural difficulties and assist to decrease anxiety levels. An amazing new tool to facilitate change and encourage further developmental gains in our little ones”
Chantel Nortje, BSc Physiotherapy (Hons), UCT, Private Paediatric, Neurodevelopmental Physiotherapist
Yoga Therapy for Children with Challenges
Yoga can reduce anxiety, increase self awareness and improve motor skills. Yoga can help with emotional regulation as well as improve confidence, build strength and flexibility. Improves self-control, supports a good nights rest and provides consistency.
“What truly captivated me is Sandy’s remarkable talent in seamlessly blending yoga, play, and therapy with her equine companions who hold the vibration high and the energy safe. Bless those Horses!!The sheer joy, hope, and transformative power of play therapy warmed my heart, offering a gateway for Neuro-Divine children, teens, and those facing unique challenges to find their place in a world of inclusivity. 🌈 This post has deeply touched my soul. Thank you, Sandy, for your beautiful and inspiring work, it has been such a blessing to share the Yoga therapy journey with you. 💖🐴” Suzanne Manson (Trainer Pro) Founder Yoga4Kids 2003
Wagon Ride with Bambi and Dreamy
For mums and tots or a group of young friends. Suitable for ages 2 and up. The wagon ride is about 45min around the quiet roads of Chapmans Peak ending with a short tour of the yard with over 50 horses to see and interact with.
Solo Ride on Big Ben
From ages 7 and up. Enjoy a ride all on your own (lead/monitored by Sandy) on Noordhoeks biggest horse through the quiet roads of Chapmans Peak. The ride is usually 45min ending with a short tour of the yard with over 50 horses to see and interact with.
Eldercare and Home Visits
Our therapy pets are mobile, available to do home, hospital and health care visits both for group sessions and one on one. Our goal is to improve quality of life, enhance well-being, increase social engagement, reduce feelings of loneliness as well as improve mental and physical health. This applies to all ages including end of life, trauma victims and the terminally ill.
