With the help of rescued or donated horses, Square Peg, just south of Half Moon Bay, offers an adaptive horsemanship program for youth, based on individual needs and abilities.
The goal is to turn the “I wish” children may feel when faced with any life challenge, into “I can.”
|
|
While most people navigate those bewildering challenges, others with learning challenges can benefit from extra help. That’s where learning to ride becomes much more than physical exercise at Square Peg.
Based on the idea that with acceptance comes learning and community forms when barriers of isolation are broken, Square Peg strives for a caring, respecting community.
Its program revolves around a comprehensive, “whole horse” approach. That involves care, training and horse psychology as well as horsemanship and riding technique. Skills taught include basic riding technique, trail riding, dressage, jumping, vaulting (acrobatics on horseback) and polo.
Square Peg also presents guest speakers including farriers, vets and trainers.
The overall experience “shows our students that they are capable of so much more than they expected,” according to a statement on the Square Peg Web site. “Caring for an animal 15 times your size is at first intimidating and scary, and becomes empowering and exciting.”
The open house is set from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25 at Square Peg Ranch, 2399 Purisima Creek Road, Half Moon Bay.
The event will include fresh cider, homemade cookies, and a costume parade for kids and horses. Organizers are looking for volunteers before and during the event, to help clean and prepare the ranch, groom the horses and lead tours.
For information, e-mail joell@squarepegfoundation.org or call Square Peg at (650) 284-5064.
w