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An Equine Assisted Growth & Learning Experience Supporting Individuals, Children and Families |
Therese Kallstrom, Kim Gangwish, and Deb Burgess are founders of The Equinox Program, intended to empower children through experience and interaction. This program provides groups that focus on interaction between children in order to create a sense of camaraderie, bonding and acceptance. Children are encouraged to express themselves amongst peers in similar situations and accept and relish their individuality and uniqueness. These groups are interactive and age-appropriate while encouraging the adoptive child to explore their feelings in a safe and fun environment. An emphasis is placed on experiential interaction and "hands on" learning by incorporating art activities, creating skits, game playing and other activities that invite, challenge and encourage acceptance.
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In addition to these interactive group workshops, Therese, Kim and Deb, have created an equine-based program, which allows the adoptive children and teens to interact with horses while they learn very important individual and team-building skills. The children learn to trust their intuition, strength and presence while working together with horses whose main purpose is to mirror their accomplishments and challenges . Therese is an EAGALA member (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) and is certified in EAP (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy). Deb is an Equine Specialist with over twenty years experience working with children and horses. On her ranch in Boulder, she teaches children and adults horsemanship skills and riding. |
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We have found that it is extremely beneficial for children to interact with horses. Horses are very strong, powerful and instinctive beings. They challenge our children to observe, be assertive and self-aware. Horses are 'no-nonsense' beings, and mirror and reflect our desires, challenges and needs. With the guidance of horses, we are able to see that, we too, can be powerful, yet sensitive and sure-footed, as we set our own goals and boundaries in life. |
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Presented in the summer of 2005. These group workshops, for children between the ages of 9-14, are intended to increase effective communication and teamwork. The children will learn important life-skills together with peers and equine friends. The main goal of this 8-week workshop is to allow the opportunity for these children to communicate and cooperate while increasing their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. Space is limited. Please register early. |
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