Horses and children
Sometime ago, it was a big deal to learn that there would be horses for riding at children’s events and at the beach for leisure.
This excitement never fades because horses and children have shared a unique and meaningful bond for centuries.
Historically, it is said that horses were part of everyday life.
Children learned to ride at an early age because it was a practical skill needed for transport, farming and community life.
They learnt the art of balancing, discipline and courage through these interactions with horses.
Over time, as societies urbanised, the relationship with horses transformed into spaces of learning, sport and celebration.
For children, however, the interactions are special and unique.
“Children and horses share a bond beyond words; both teach us patience, trust, and joy.” – Unknown.
Horse riding remains a popular feature at children’s events today because of this history.
Pony (a small, sturdy type of horse, often suited for children or light work) rides at funfairs, festivals, holiday festivities and other gatherings may look like simple entertainment, but they echo an older tradition.
Even brief rides have a powerful effect. Being guided on a horse helps children feel brave and capable.
The height, movement, and novelty create excitement, while the steady rhythm of the horse can be calming.
For some children, this experience sparks curiosity and confidence; for others, it becomes a treasured memory associated with safety and fun. What appears to be “just fun” often carries deeper emotional value.
It actually has value for human development. Horses invite children to slow down, connect, and discover their own strength.
Interaction
Beyond events, regular interaction with horses nurtures responsibility and empathy.
Grooming, feeding, or leading a horse teaches children to move slowly, pay attention, and care for another living being. Horses respond to calmness and clarity, not force.
Children quickly learn that their emotions and behaviour matter.
If they rush or shout, the horse may pull away. When they are gentle and focused, the horse responds. This natural feedback builds self-awareness without lectures.
Emotionally, horses can be deeply comforting.
They do not judge or pressure children.
For a child who feels overwhelmed or misunderstood, standing beside a calm horse can make all the difference.
It is this powerful bond that has been intentionally harnessed in horse therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy or hippotherapy.
Support
In structured therapeutic settings, trained professionals work with specially selected horses to support children with physical, developmental, emotional, or behavioural challenges.
Horse therapy is used with children who have conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays, and emotional difficulties in countries such as Taiwan.
One of its greatest strengths is confidence-building.
When a child learns to guide a horse, maintain balance during a ride, or complete a task independently, they experience genuine achievement.
For children who often need assistance in daily life, this sense of capability can be transformative.
The rhythmic movement of a walking horse closely mirrors the human gait, helping improve balance, posture, muscle tone, and coordination.
Because the experience feels enjoyable rather than clinical, children with special needs are often more motivated and engaged than in traditional therapy sessions.
Emotionally, socially
Emotionally and socially, horse therapy fosters connection and joy.
Therapists frequently observe increased communication, eye contact, and emotional expression during sessions.
Horses respond honestly and immediately, helping children learn trust, patience, and empathy in a natural way.
It is said that the greatness of a horse lies not in its strength but in the gentle way it teaches a child to believe in themselves.
In Ghana, the idea of horse therapy for children with special needs is still largely unknown, yet the benefits are remarkable.
It is time for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to explore this powerful form of therapy and consider incorporating it into programmes for children who need extra support.
Let’s open the door to healing and growth ̶ one gentle ride at a time.
The writer is a Child development expert/Fellow of the Zero-To-Three Academy, USA.
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