Stacey's Therapeutic Horseback Riding Journal

July 24, 2003

Each Thursday when we arrive at Ready, Set, Ride Therapeutic Recreation Facility Isaiah signs “all done,” meaning he does not want to ride. However, each time he seems to really enjoy himself. Today was no different. As we turned into the stable area, he signed “all done.” We told him that we were not all done and started to walk to the stable. As we tried to put on his riding hat, he resisted and pushed the hat away. We reminded him of how much fun he always has with the horses. We finally got him on to Schnapps, his assigned pony. As Schnapps slowly walked away, Isaiah looked back at Harold and me with large, sad eyes. He looked miserable. I started to chat with Kathy, a therapeutic riding instructor, explaining that we may take a break next quarter because Isaiah does not seem to enjoy horseback riding. Just as I was saying that, Isaiah passed by smiling and laughing! Well, my credibility disappeared!

I think that while Isaiah is not thrilled about riding, he enjoys the games that they play while riding. Indeed, he has come a long way. During the first couple of sessions, Isaiah screamed and cried. Now he resists in the beginning, but ultimately really enjoys himself.

Stacey 7/24/03
editor@celebratingchildren.com