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On my way to visit Sensory Stables, an unmounted equine-assisted learning program run by Laura Koch, a certified occupational therapy assistant-licensed (COTA/L), located in Lafayette, I had an immediate sense of calmness wash over me. The scene is perfectly serene and welcoming: Resident horses, Rudy and Rayne, trotting in their paddock while donkeys, Petunia and Frankie, bray in the distance. I think to myself, “what a wonderful place for a child to learn and explore!”

What Is Equine-Assisted Learning?

Imagine a classroom where kids have the freedom to explore a farm safely, interact with and learn about the resident animals, and all while building social and motor skills. That’s what equine-assisted learning, or EAL, programs are all about. It is a non-therapy service run by trained professionals who use activities involving horses (mounted and unmounted) and the farm environment to benefit students.

Think of it as structured nature-based play for your kids. Mom can rest easy knowing her kids are developing life skills and confidence through equine-oriented activities while the children enjoy hands-on experiences on the farm.

“EAL is a unique way to introduce kids to the animals in a friendly, engaging environment,” Koch said.

The best EAL programs are run by good-natured people passionate about sharing their love of horses.

Benefits of Equine-Assisted Learning for Kids

There are many ways horses can leave a positive, lifelong impression on the lives of children. Equine-assisted learning is one branch of equine-assisted therapy (EAT) that can have lasting benefits for children and adults, with or without special needs or mental or physical disabilities. Parents can learn more about its benefits via the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International.

We've rounded up a collection of EAL stables in New Jersey that cater to kids. When visiting a stable, your child should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants. Also, be mindful of the weather and dress accordingly, as most programming is outdoors.

See you at the farm!

Where to Find EAL at New Jersey Stables

Pony Power Therapies – Mahwah

What makes it special: Sitting on 13 acres, Pony Power Therapies is a fully-accessible facility offering a variety of therapy programs for children and adults in Bergen County. In addition to equine-based activities, Pony Power also hosts garden-assisted learning programs and a variety of group classes catering to schools, adult day programs, and veterans.

Programs for Kids
Horse-Assisted Learning: This program caters to children 6 years and up. Students learn how to handle and move safely around a horse while using common grooming tools, and may progress to lead-walking the horse. Students learn life skills, including safety, awareness, setting and respecting boundaries, problem-solving, and responsibility.
Forest Babies: For ages 18 months-4 years, this program offers a technology-free experience with access to the whole farm. Children get to socialize, dig in the soil, feed and observe animals, harvest and taste in the garden, make music, and listen to the sounds of nature.

Parent tips: Power Pony Therapies offers need-based financial aid to a limited number of families, schools, and agencies. Call ahead for spring classes at 201-934-1001.

Dreamweaver Equine Center – Ringoes

What makes it special: Dreamweaver Equine Center is a large nonprofit equestrian facility with 13 horses, plus goats, donkeys, and a rescued cow. Parents love the attached indoor arena with dust-free footing and a temperature-controlled viewing lounge. In addition to the various programs it provides, Dreamweaver also runs a year-round pre-school program and riding lessons for all ages.

Programs for Kids
Mare Magic: This one-hour, farm-sensory class caters to children 0-24 months with up to two parents. Drop-ins are available.
Dream Pack: These season-long, multi-sensory group farm classes are for children ages 3-6 and 6-9 years old. Sessions are offered in the spring and fall.
Armor of Skills: This social-emotional life-skills program caters to kids ages 7 and up. This wellness class benefits kids with anxiety by engaging in obstacle course challenges that help instill confidence, trust, leadership, patience, and empathy.

Parent tips: Since this facility has many offerings, call ahead to determine the right program for your child’s needs. Live too far to attend regularly? Why not throw your next birthday party at Dreamweaver?

There's no horse riding at Sensory Stables, but kids build horsemanship and life skills in a variety of hands-on activities. Photo courtesy of the stables

Sensory Stables – Lafayette

What makes it special: Children learn in a small farm environment among goats, chickens, donkeys, and horses. Perfect for homeschool pods and mommy groups!

Programs for Kids
Mommy & Me: This one-hour, center-based class caters to children ages 8 months to 6 years old. Kids learn motor and social skills, plus how to care for the farm animals. Parents participate alongside their child.
Horses & Handwriting Workshop: This two-hour session is for children in grades kindergarten through third grade. Students strengthen handwriting, coordination, and confidence through hands-on horse and farm-based activities, all while leading their horses.
Little Burro Club: For the little ones not ready for horses, children ages 3-6 can learn colors, numbers, and letters with resident donkeys, Petunia and Frankie.

Parent tips: There is no horseback riding at Sensory Stables. Parents need to assist younger children on the farm. Those with older children can sit and observe the class. Private EAL lessons are available, providing a more individualized experience for children of all ages and abilities.

Riding With Heart – Pittstown

What makes it special: With the help of its eight horses, Riding with Heart in Hunterdon County offers many equine-assisted activities and therapies that benefit adults and children with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities. In addition to its EAL programs, RWH hosts the Bravehearts Program for Vets, First Responders, and their families.

Programs for Kids
Barn Buddies: Children ages 3-6 participate in interactive activities with the horses that include story time, crafts, nature walks, grooming, and learning all about the horses. The horses are used as a canvas for painting projects!
Summer Learning Program: This program is for children ages 5-13 with or without disabilities to come together and learn team-building skills, enjoy horseback riding lessons, arts and crafts, and games. Each week is a new theme.
Adaptive Therapeutic Horseback Riding: This program is for all ages and teaches horseback riding skills adapted to each student’s abilities and goals. Lessons incorporate activities that build confidence, core strength, social skills, gross and fine motor skills, eye/hand coordination, balance, problem-solving skills, and sensory integration.

Parent tips: Check the RWH Facebook page for frequent pop-up workshops for kids and special events throughout the year.

Mane Stream – Oldwick

What makes it special: Mane Stream, formally known as the Somerset Hills Handicapped Riding Center, has a rich history dating back 50 years. In 2001, a new facility was built on the 12-acre farm in Hunterdon County, where it still operates today. The name changed to Mane Stream in 2012, but it continues its tradition of offering a variety of equine programs, including adaptive horsemanship, a day camp for all abilities, and therapy services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and counseling services.

Programs for Kids
Paddock Pals: This program is for children, ages 3-5, and focuses on creative play and horse-centric activities. Mane Stream limits the program to six children for a more individualized experience.
Summer Camp: An inclusive camp for children of all abilities, ages 4 and up. The program runs 11 weeks during the summer and accommodates a limited number of students. Kids learn basic riding skills, how to take care of the horses, and enjoy arts and crafts and games with friends.

Parent tips: Mane Stream offers many community events and fundraisers that allow parents to get to know the people behind the scenes while having some family fun. Check out its calendar.

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