Our Programs
Our programs vary to help fill the different needs of others.
Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding is adaptive horsemanship riding lessons that are held in a small group setting.
HEARTS
A one-on-one unmounted program in which clients learn basic horse knowledge and handling skills.
Equine Educational Experience
A one-time equine educational experience for groups or classes of 4-18 participants.
Session Information
SMILES classes run in four seasonal 8-week sessions throughout the year. Classes run Monday through Saturday, mornings and evenings each week. The options of class times vary by session and depend on where openings are available.
2023 Session Dates:
Winter Session
January 9 - March 4
Registration Deadline: 11/28/2022
Spring Session
April 1 - May 26
Registration Deadline: 03/04/2023
Summer Session
July 3 - August 26
Registration Deadline: 05/26/2023
Fall Session
September 25 - November 18
Registration Deadline: 08/26/2023
How to Get Started
- Look over our programs that are offered
- Fill out the Client Enrollment Application
- Physician's Release also needs to be completed and signed
- Send the application to our Program Coordinator, Katie Boss.
- Ways to submit the application
- In-person hand-in at the office (Office hours are Monday-Friday 8 AM - 4 PM)
- Email: classes@smilestherapeuticriding.org
- Fax: 262-882-5661
- Ways to submit the application
- Schedule by email or call for a cost-free onsite evaluation with our Program Coordinator, Katie Boss
- During the evaluation you will receive
- A full facility tour
- Establish individual goals to be addressed during the session
- Go into depth about our 8-week progressive curriculum
- Discuss the available class times
- During the evaluation you will receive
Therapeutic Riding
Our Therapeutic Riding program teaches horsemanship skills while using therapeutic activities that offer challenging recreation geared towards the individual's physical, emotional, social and educational benefits in mind.
In our therapeutic riding program, participants learn true horsemanship skills as well as foundations for life's endeavors. The PATH International Certified Instructors develop challenging lesson plans that incorporate specific riding skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, and at the same time foster success.
Clients typically come once a week for a 45 minute riding lesson, based in a small group setting.
Therapeutic riding has some unique benefits that are derived from the transfer of movement from horse to rider.
- The horse's three dimensional gait gives the rider the feeling and mental images of walking while receiving physical, social, and emotional benefits.
- Components such as music, colors, numbers, and shape recognition can be built into a therapeutic riding session to stimulate learning.
- Riders improve their self-esteem and independence as they interact with their peers, volunteers, and instructors.
- Communication, sequencing, and coordination are just a few of the many benefits Therapeutic Riding has to offer.
HEARTS
HEARTS stands for Horse Experience & Activities Resulting in Therapeutic Success. A 30-minute one-on-one unmounted program in which clients learn the sequencing of grooming, saddling, and communicating with the horse safely from the ground. Working towards their individual goals, clients will also learn responsibility and empathy towards caring for the horse. This program is great for both the rider and non-rider.
Our unmounted program provides many benefits for physical, social, emotional, and cognitive.
- Physical
- Gross and fine motor skills are incorporated into the lesson plans during activities such as grooming and saddling. The client also works on balance and coordination, as they are constantly stretching and reaching during these activities. The HEARTS program promotes cardiovascular and strength training through groom, saddling, and leading.
- Social/Emotional
- Relationships are built on a foundation of communication and trust within this program as they learn how to bond and work with their horse as a team. Through a partnership with the horse, clients learn trust, respect and leadership skills. The success of mastering new skills, builds self-esteem and motivated the client to try new things.
- Cognitive
- Grooming and saddling are done in a specific order, which develops routine and sequencing/recall. When covering horse care, the client receives a sense of responsibility. The HEARTS program also introduces new vocabulary and improves attention and focus.
Equine Educational Experience
A one-time equine educational experience for schools and group homes of 4-18 participants.
Participants rotate through three unique learning stations such as:
- Horseback riding
- Grooming
- Horse Nutrition
Our recreational ride program provides many benefits for physical, social, emotional, and cognitive.
- Addressing sensory levels
- Physical Exercise
- Endurance
- Nurturing
TAKE SMILES HOME WITH YOU
These fun at-home activities are perfect to practice your knowledge when you aren't at SMILES!
There's something for all ages!