Wellspring Farm

Handicapped

Since 1985 Wellspring Farm has offered a therapeutic riding program. Now called Hearts, Hands and Horses 4 H Club, it is a program for people with special needs, from children to adults. Like Wellspring Farm’s lesson program, a balanced seat is emphasized. Our therapeutic riding instructors have specialized training. Our horses are gentle, willing and safe. The facilities offer students an opportunity to enjoy all seasons of nature from the back of a horse.

Once paperwork is complete, students in Hearts, Hands and Horses 4 H Club begin their initial riding lesson with a Therapeutic Riding Instructor and an Occupational Therapist. An individual plan is developed for each student with consideration for their particular needs and goals.

All instructors and volunteers are insured through 4 H. All participants join 4 H and are eligible to participate in statewide 4 H activities.

The goal of therapeutic riding is for the student to
learn to ride to best of their ability. Some of the benefits all students receive from riding are:

Increased…
- sense of balance
- core stability
- joint mobility
- coordination and rhythm
- attention
- perceptual skills
Tactile stimulation
Sense of well being

	For people who may benefit from Occupational Therapy, hippotherapy is also available at Wellspring Farm. Hippotherapy is the use of the movement of the horse as a treatment strategy by an Occupational Therapist.

All volunteers and participants are insured through The University of Delaware Medical Insurance in connection with
the 4-H.