Youth Programs

Horses are non-judgmental and serve as a guide on the journey of self-discovery. As our primary facilitators, the horses create a stimulating learning environment for youth. The emphasis of this program is:

• Positive life and social skills
• Academic skills
• Creative arts
• Emotional and mental fitness
• Self-discovery

The Teen Program consists of learning modules which use experiential, metaphorical, and skill based learning, and incorporates and enhances the skills learned in previous modules.

The program promotes positive growth and meaningful change, fostering key understandings, improved self management and enhanced communication and relationship skill for students. The students learn to run on their own horsepower, so to speak.

All modules incorporate The Equine Keys of Excellence for Human Success or the Strides for Success curriculum, which has been adopted by middle and high school districts in 42 states.

Key Understanding students will acquire include:

• How well they personally manage themselves
• How well they manage difficult situations
• Problem solving and creative thinking skills
• Basic Natural Horsemanship Skills
• Empathy and partnership with another
• How their behavior affects themselves and others
• How having behavioral options supports success
• Understand the difference between Wants and Needs
• Understand the importance of setting goals
• Understand the importance of clear communication
• Understand the importance of perseverance
• How the Equine Keys and Strides for Success curriculums can be a guideline for choices that lead to healthy outcomes
• Understand that Success is not a mystery; there are principles to achieve it that work

Length of Program – Programs are custom-tailored to meet the client’s needs, and there are a variety of classes available.  Horses for the Spirit will work with your individual youth, youth groups and/or teaching staff to create a unique life enhancing academic life skills program to promote positive growth and meaningful change.