About This Video

In this enrichment video, viewers learn about horseback riding at Hearts & Horses and hear from families about what riding has meant for Carissa and Jen.

Carissa’s family shares how riding has helped her develop motor control, confidence, and a rare chance to be in control. When she is on the horse, the horse listens to her, giving her a powerful experience of independence and choice.

Jen’s family shares how she has returned to riding through many medical challenges, including surgeries and hospital stays. They describe how being on a horse has helped her body move more easily and how the people at Hearts & Horses have become like extended family.

This video is not a horseback riding lesson. It is a story-based enrichment video about therapeutic riding, confidence, movement, support, and the deep connection that can form between riders, horses, families, and volunteers.

Good For

• Adults with IDD who enjoy horses, animals, outdoor settings, real-life stories, or peer representation.

• Caregivers looking for an enrichment video about therapeutic riding, confidence, movement, and community support.

• Adult day programs, home routines, or group discussions about recreation, adaptive activities, courage, independence, and trying meaningful new experiences.

• Viewers who benefit from seeing people with disabilities participate in joyful, supported activities in the community.

How to Use This Video

Use this video as a calming, story-based enrichment option for viewers who enjoy animals, horses, or real-life stories.

Because the video shows therapeutic riding rather than giving riding instructions, caregivers can frame it as a chance to observe, listen, and talk about what horseback riding can mean for different people. It may also be useful before a visit to a farm, riding center, animal program, or outdoor recreation activity.

After watching, caregivers can ask questions like:

• What did you notice about Carissa and Jen when they were around the horses?

• How do you think riding made them feel?

• Why might it feel good to have a horse listen to you?

• What kinds of animals do you enjoy being around?

• Is there an outdoor activity you would like to try someday?

This video can also support conversations about confidence, supported recreation, community participation, and the importance of finding activities that help each person feel strong, connected, and joyful.

Thank You

Special thanks to Hearts & Horses for generously allowing Delight Station to share this video with our members. Learn more about their therapeutic riding programs at Hearts & Horses.