The Foundation for the Promotion of Equestrian Sport and the Asociación de Padres de Personas con Trastorno do Espectro Autista (Parents of Individuals suffering from ASD Association) from La Coruña, have settled their second cooperation agreement in order to conduct a therapeutic riding program called “Building up personal autonomy with the horse” (“Trabajo de la Autonomía con el Caballo”).

During the months of April, May and June, a total of 31 pupils of Special Needs Education School ASPANAES from San Pedro de Leixa, Ferrol, participated in a program focused on developing their personal autonomy through activities like approaching and making contact with horses,  learning to delay rewards and wait for and respect turns in games. Groups of 4-6 persons were set up to attend 2 hours sessions, twice a week.

With this equestrian therapy activity is was possible to foster interpersonal communication and social participation of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Getting involved in group activities that combine fun leisure and learning helps the children broaden their usual working patterns, and has a positive influence at both emotional and social levels. It’s for this reason that the Foundation for the Promotion of Equestrian Sport has been willing to cooperate once again with this initiative of ASPANAES Association.