Here's a little blurb from their website that explains it better than if I tried to:
HETRA serves a variety of clients including Children and adults with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, brain tumors, head injuries, blindness, autism, and strokes. Our students benefit from therapeutic riding in a variety of ways. The rhythmic motion of the horse at the walk helps to relax tight spastic muscles. Sitting on the horse encourages students to hold themselves up which strengthens neck and trunk muscles. Riding also stretches hip and thigh muscles, and improves balance. Interaction with the instructor helps students follow directions, extend their attention span and work on concepts such as right and left. Interaction with the horse allows the students to develop a bond with the animal that improves self-esteem and builds confidence. Each student rides for approximately 30 minutes one time per week, and most students are assisted by a leader and two sidewalkers throughout their session. Two of our instructors are Occupational Therapists who monitor the students progress throughout their participation in the program.
Okay - so how did it go - I know that's really what you want to read about!
It was a typical first session! Every first session with a new therapy it takes Aubrey some time to get comfortable and it takes even more time for the new therapist to really "get" Aubrey. We were ready for this though - it's a natural response for any of us in a new situation - so no big surprises.
We were very pleased with how well Aubrey took to the horse - she was not scared one bit and the horse didn't seem to mind her wiggling and squirming nature either. So I know in time the horse Kayla and Aubrey will become great friends!
Aubrey's biggest hurdle will be getting used to wearing the required helmet. She doesn't mind wearing it - but the straps that dangle down that are causing the problem. She was OBSESSED with chewing on them. It's all she wanted to do so she didn't tend to much else! We tried to tuck them away - but she'd find them or they'd eventually slip out - and then back to her incessant chewing. We'll likely buy a bike helmet for her to wear for practice - so she can get over the strap obsession!
Throughout all of it, Molly and I were watching from the sidelines and Chris was in the ring with them but not right up there. You could tell he wanted to jump in and help so bad - but until we're formally trained as a Side Walkers - we can't be right up there with her during the actual session. You see - in almost every other therapy we've started with Aubrey (Physical, Occupational, Speech, ect) it's usually Chris that gets Aubrey to initially tune into the session. He also provides a good example for the new therapists to see what Aubrey responds to best. Aubrey is such a daddy's girl - and he just has this special way with her to get her to focus. She missed out on this due to the safety rules this session.
But with more helmet practice, more familiarity with each other, and Chris and I getting "officially" trained - I think this is going to be really good for her. Her lack of control and balance is the biggest thing that is holding back from walking independently - so we think this therapy will really assist her in these areas!
Here are some pictures of her on the Kayla the horse - enjoy! 
