Children with diverse needs are trotting away on horses in Williams Lake, where the Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre (CCCDC) is hosting its annual Horsin’ Around program.
With 15 participants this year and at least three volunteers per child, Horsin’ Around is creating space for children to develop physically, emotionally and socially through experiences they may otherwise not have access to.
Over a period of four days, children are paired up with a horse and three volunteers to try out horse riding in an environment which supports their individualized needs.
“I see it firsthand with the children here in the Horsin’ Around program – they thrive, they love it,” said Victoria Savile, a second-time volunteer for the program.
She said she loves witnessing the children’s growth while in the program, explaining how on the first day many were quite shy and nervous but by the second day they were excited to get on the horses.
“By the end they’re doing it on their own and it’s so amazing to be a part of,” Savile said.
The volunteers – as well as the horses – meet the children where they’re at, providing a structured program with activities which progress as a child’s comfort level grows.
“We don’t push the kids further than what they’re comfortable with,” said Nikita Oakford who organized the program this year. She described Horsin’ Around as a self-led activity, where each child is supported by three volunteers who are present to ensure the child’s safety and comfort.
If a child decides they don’t want to sit on the horse, they are able to participate in the program from the ground. If they are on the horse but aren’t comfortable galloping, the child isn’t pressured to do so.
When six-year-old Sawyer Brown-John attended the program last year, his mother Carly said he loved it. From sitting on the horse to leading and petting it, Sawyer remembered it all and was happy to return for another round.
“It just gives him a different way to connect with something that maybe he might not get otherwise,” Carly said, adding that she feels the activity gives her son a sense of calmness as well.
“It's amazing...it's more than just riding horses,” Carly said while encouraging others to give the program a try.
Horsin’ Around is held at the Williams Lake Riders Association’s indoor arena and the horses are rented from Bobi Bracewell with Wyld Whisper Trails.
Savile strongly encourages others to volunteer their time at the program which she referred to as “phenomenal.”
To learn more about the program and future volunteer opportunities, visit the Horsin’ Around Facebook page or the CCCDC website.
