The sun sets on the Ohio Horse Park. Nearly 300 children have participated in riding therapy since the center opened in May 1999. They are referred by teachers, social workers, mental health professionals, foster care boards and parents. Some start out shy or have classroom conduct problems. Then all of a sudden, it happens.
Some activities even improve students' academic skills.
In one math game, riders roll large fuzzy dice, add the numbers together, then walk their horses the corresponding number of steps. The horse park also offers an extensive breeding facility. Located just two hours from Lexington, Ky., the horse park benefits from its proximity to the heart of the equine industry as well as its already solid reputation for producing professionally trained graduates. As the program moves forward, the University is exploring an international exchange program for equine studies students and faculty. When this program was created, I was told to dream big.