What Others Say About Loveway, Inc. Therapeutic Riding
Loveway is wonderful organization with a caring and knowledgeable staff. My 11 year old son has participated in the therapeutic horseback riding program for four years. The staff makes him feel comfortable and allows him to be used as an example to the newer students. Feeling he excels at something gives a boost to his self esteem he is not able to receive through academics due to his learning disabilities. In addition, riding gives him a sense of calmness and helps to improve his attention, balance, strength, and coordination. Interacting with the staff and horses creates a sense of responsibility, affection, and a love for animals. He hopes he is able to repay Loveway by volunteering as a teenager.
In addition, Brenden is able to see others who suffer from disabilities and does not feel different when he is at Loveway. Realizing others suffer the same or worse than he also creates empathy.
Thanks,
Karen -Brenden's mom
Cole's Loveway experience has been life-changing for our whole family. He started at Loveway when he was 3 and we knew that he had some sort of sensory processing disorder that was affecting every aspect of his life, especially his speech. He had almost no words at this point. He would ride in the Wednesday afternoon class, and on Thursday morning, words would just start popping out and his personality was much calmer and happier. This would carryover through the weekend and by Monday, his words would decrease and his mood would turn for the worse. Our whole family began to live for Loveway Wednesdays!! The horse has the ability to organize his system, and allow him to get his words out and feel in control.
Cole is now almost 5, and a totally different kid! He is speaking in full sentences now, and is acting like a "typical 5 year old". The sensory processing disorder still affects him, but with his horseback riding and occupational therapy, he is able to speak and feel good. Our family is so thankful to Loveway and all of the volunteers who gave us this really special little boy.
Jeannine -Cole's mom
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