Client empowerment curriculum
The Colored Learning Levels
One of our core curriculums is the Colored Learning Levels, which we use to assess and help riders meet their goals. This curriculum provides our instructors with the flexibility to teach according to each student's unique learning style while ensuring that goals are met within an attainable timeline. Specifically designed for our Adaptive Horsemanship and Adaptive Riding Program, this structured approach allows for gradual skill development. On-going skill assessment is stress-free and conducted over time, ensuring accountability and consistency in our teaching while keeping the experience positive and rewarding for our riders. One of our favorite parts of the Colored Learning Levels is that we can provide printable materials for fun activities at home that correspond with the adaptive lessons, allowing riders to reinforce their learning outside of the arena.
.jpg)
Special Olympics & Adaptive Equestrian Training
One of the programs near and dear to our hearts is the Special Olympics for our adaptive riders. Equestrian is one of the most fascinating sports during the Special Olympics World Games. The balance, stability, and communication between the horse and rider are key elements for success in equestrian sport. The curriculum for Special Olympics is highly accommodating and taught in an 18-week format in our program.
Our program also offers year-round instruction for riders who wish to continue developing their skills beyond the competition season. These Special Olympics lessons are separate from regular adaptive riding lessons, allowing athletes to focus on specialized training. Throughout the year, Special Olympics provides equestrian competitors with the opportunity to participate at County, Area, and State events. Our instructors work closely with adaptive riders to empower them to meet their chosen goals and compete with confidence.
Our program also offers year-round instruction for riders who wish to continue developing their skills beyond the competition season. These Special Olympics lessons are separate from regular adaptive riding lessons, allowing athletes to focus on specialized training. Throughout the year, Special Olympics provides equestrian competitors with the opportunity to participate at County, Area, and State events. Our instructors work closely with adaptive riders to empower them to meet their chosen goals and compete with confidence.
Another Step Forward: Showcasing Abilities
We believe in highlighting our adaptive clients' strengths beyond their mental and physical abilities. Our program hosts in-house events through our Another Step Forward initiative, providing riders with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities in action. We have found these events to be incredibly rewarding, fostering growth within our program and building confidence in our riders.
These functions are designed to bring families and the community together, inspiring our riders to keep taking Another Step Forward. Our passionate instructors are dedicated to helping our adaptive clients develop new skills in a positive and encouraging environment. These events will be hosted in both the Spring and Fall, ensuring all clients have the opportunity to participate and celebrate their progress.
These functions are designed to bring families and the community together, inspiring our riders to keep taking Another Step Forward. Our passionate instructors are dedicated to helping our adaptive clients develop new skills in a positive and encouraging environment. These events will be hosted in both the Spring and Fall, ensuring all clients have the opportunity to participate and celebrate their progress.
NSBA Opportunities
NSBA EWD
The National Snaffle Bit Association holds classes for riders at NSBA shows across the country. This competition is open to people with physical or cognitive disabilities that love competing. EWD classes may be held at NSBA approved shows, US Para-Equestrian events, or can be stand-alone events. In order to participate in EWD events, a Special Diagnosis Form and Special Adaptive Equipment & Independent Riding Ability Form must be completed.
NSBA Heros on Horses
In addition to Equestrians With Disabilities, the Foundation also promotes classes in which riders who are disabled veterans or active duty “wounded warriors” and participate in PATH Intl. Equine Services for Heroes or have a Department of Veteran Affairs disability rating are eligible to compete, called Heroes On Horses.
For clients who aspire to expand their experience beyond our core programs, we offer opportunities to participate in locally hosted open shows. These events provide a fun and supportive environment where riders can explore friendly competition and showcase their skills in selected classes. It’s a great way to build confidence, connect with the community, and celebrate progress.
Open Shows