Children needing extra support were taught to ride horses last week at the annual Horsin’ Around program run by the Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre.
Volunteers met with the children every morning throughout the week at the Trail Riders Arena to support the kids as they walked and trotted the horses and played games like What time is it Mr. Wolf?
“It's amazing, just watching kids...totally thrive,” said Nikita Oakford who took the reins this year from the usual organizer, Ruth Shaw. “We’ve had kids that wouldn't take a step the first day that are trotting now and, it's just amazing,” she said.
Marlene Eccles, known to folks at the program as Grandma, is a strong supporter of Horsin’ Around. This is the second year she’s brought her granddaughter Savanna to the program, and she said she wants to see it expand.
Savanna, 11, is homeschooled because Eccles said the school system often doesn't work for children with disabilities. But programs like Horsin' Around, which give the time and space children need to learn, are phenomenal, Eccles said. She noted how Savanna’s confidence has been boosted by the experience, and how much she benefits from being outdoors, moving and learning how to care for the horses.
"This program has empowered Savanna," Eccles said, praising Oakford for her ability to work with the kids. When Oakford noticed the kids were becoming more confident, she even allowed them to try and trot their horse.
"Savanna was thrilled to trot the horse, thrilled to lead it, and that just empowers you with confidence," Eccles said.
None of it would have been possible without the volunteers who helped guide the horses and check the children's balance. Among the volunteers were Reese Huska, Julia Zirnhelt and Jacob Deausy, local students there to gain experience.
The students all said they had a great time helping out. “At the beginning the kids were shy and quiet, but at the end they were joking with us,” Zirnhelt said. “They liked us, they wanted us again, and we actually taught our one kid how to ride.”
There were five horses and one pony provided by Bobi Bracewell with Wyld Whisper Trails, all gentle and happy to ride with the children.
Oakford and Shaw said they are considering scheduling next year’s session during the Spring break to avoid extreme summer heat. Those interested in attending or volunteering can get in touch with the Child Development Centre through their website or by phone at 250-392-4481.
As for Savannah, she said she’ll continue to attend the program “until the day I die!”
