Taking on a group of developmental disorders whose prevalence rate is increasing each year, the ideas in this book show how those with autism gradually open up within a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.
The study draws from a strong knowledge base of equine training, child psychoanalysis, and clinical psychology, contending that certain animals- specifically horses, have a way of communicating with individuals on the autism spectrum.
The process of learning to ride is presented as a unique educational system, inviting the autistic individual to discover new sensations, gain a sense of independence, and learn to control their emotions and fears. Addressing the emotional needs of family and friends of those with autism, this emboldening guide encourages those on the spectrum to look up, speak out, and become stronger in mind and spirit.
This is a clip of Adam Tepas, 8, during one of his riding classes which help him deal with his autism.
Claudine Pelletier-Milet, a French riding instructor, shares countless stories—anecdotal evidence—of how equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) can be a means to forming and nurturing lines of communication while encouraging a healthy and natural evolution of self in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Within these pages she sorts through theory from fields of medicine, education, and psychology, while daily applying her own intuition and empathy in her work. This book raises questions, answers many of them, and recounts breakthroughs and moments of elation certain to bring hope t the families and caregivers of autistic individuals.
