Help Children Overcome Fear of Horses
Creating Positive Experiences Between Child and Equine
Jun 24, 2009
Some children are naturally scared of horses, while others develop a fear of horses through bad experiences with them. Either way, if the child is exposed to equines on a regular basis, it is important for parents to address this issue as quickly as possible.
Let's say, for example, that parents of a child who is afraid of horses own a horse farm. Even if the child has no interest in riding or handling equines, he or she will need to overcome this fear in order to live comfortably with horses. There are also situations in which a child who previously loved to ride is now scared because of a terrible fall or other accident.
There are numerous theories about how to overcome fear of horses, some of which are too direct for young children. But how can parents and equestrian professionals devise a program that will help children overcome fear of horses in a positive setting?
Ask the Child About Horses
The first step is to find out exactly what the child wants. Some children might want to overcome fear of horses so they can ride again in comfort, while others might simply want nothing to do with equestrian activities. Either way, parents and professionals need to know the child's specific goals.
If the child is not interested in interacting with horses, therapy must take a different course. The goal is not to create a lifelong bond between the child and animals, but simply to ensure the child is sufficiently comfortable to live a normal life.
On the other hand, children who are interested in overcoming fear of horses in order to pursue equestrian activities will need to begin the bonding process. This type of therapy might take longer, but it is bolstered by the knowledge that the child is interested in moving forward with positive experiences.
Establish a Safe Equine Environment
A safe equine environment is essential to helping any child overcome fear of horses. Without it, an accident or mistake can actually enhance the fear rather than diminish it.
To create a safe equine environment, parents or equestrian professionals must set up a space specifically intended for equine therapy. It should include:
- Small enclosure with enough room for a horse, an adult and the child
- Halter and lead rope to control the horse
- Mounting block
- ASTM-approved riding helmet for the child
Ideally, the enclosure will be made of wooden slats so neither the child nor the horse feels too confined. There should also be an escape route whereby the child can flee an uncomfortable situation - for example, a gate he or she can easily unlatch.
Create Short, Positive Experiences Between Child and Equine
It is impossible to help children overcome fear of horses in a single afternoon, and forcing the child to interact with an equine for a long period of time would be counter-productive. Instead, therapy should commence in short bursts over a long period of time.
For example, the child might be asked to help brush the horse for ten minutes. He or she can stand on the mounting block to help feel more powerful and to put the child at eye level with the horse. If he or she wants to continue brushing after ten minutes, it should be allowed, but the child should not be forced to continue interacting after the time is up.
When children become comfortable with brushing the horse, it is safe to move on to other activities, such as combing the mane and tail, picking the hooves or even sitting on the horse bareback at a standstill. Encourage the child to pet the horse frequently, and even to talk to him.
Overcoming Fear of Horseback Riding
For children who are interested in riding horses, fear of equines is far more complex. Not only must the child feel comfortable brushing, walking and petting the horse, but he or she must also be able to mount up and ride without suffering anxiety.
To help children overcome fear of horses, two side walkers should be situated on either side of the horse after the child has mounted, with another adult leading the horse. This creates a sense of comfort and security because, even if the child falls, someone is there to catch her.
The best way to pursue this form of therapy is to progress slowly. The child will tell his or her parents or instructor when he or she is ready to move on to the next step. Encouragement is healthy, but abandoning the child while riding or forcing stressful situations will only increase the fear.
It is also important to remember that this advice should not take the place of formal counseling. Children who express extreme fear of horses should be evaluated carefully by a psychological professional before placed in a situation with equines.
 |
