14 July 2023
Southwest students have learnt wellbeing strategies and important life lessons from new four-legged friends as part of an interactive horse program.
Capel Primary School students took part in the Horse Sense wellness program over seven weeks where they developed life skills and regulation strategies through experiences with horses.
The aim of the program is for students to learn how to work through challenges, build healthy relationships and regulate their behaviour and emotions.
Capel Primary School student taking part in Horse Sense program.
Speaking to the ABC, program coordinator Claire Wright said students had shown increased self-confidence and awareness since taking part in the program.
“It’s been fantastic. The idea is that it is a wellness program to teach children about strategies they can use to deal with life and challenges,” she said.
“It helps with emotional regulation, self-awareness, it also provides that sensory input from the horses that help provide those really nurturing experiences.”
Capel Primary School student Isla said she had learnt important life lessons during her time with the horses.
“I’ve been learning how to control my fears and how to overcome things I’m scared of,” she said.
Fellow student Tyler said he enjoyed being around the horses and learning from them.
“There are a lot of horses and we take care of them and they take care of us,” he said.
“My favourite thing has been spending time with the horses and feeling like I’m free.”