skills like two-point position , trotting and guiding her horse all contribute to improved physical and mental health . Practicing fine motor skills with zippers , buttons and snaps , playing catch and throwing at targets , reaching and placing items , are all done on horseback and are all contributing to daily life and success outside of Eve ’ s time at ROSL . Each session , Eve is gaining balance , strength and confidence . Equine assisted occupational therapy has even helped improve her handwriting . This fall Eve and her team worked on improving balance , strength , motor planning and coordination to bolster Eve ’ s posture and alignment and to benefit her gait , mobility , independence , confidence and overall health .
With a smile on her face and joy in her heart , Eve often shares songs with her team throughout her session , using her imagination to sing into a pretend microphone . She often encourages her therapist Lauren to participate in duets . Eve loves Stevie Wonder , especially on Carpool Karaoke , works hard and is a kind person with a big heart . Eve ’ s team looks forward to seeing her each week . We are so glad to know you Eve and happy for all your progress !
Caden
STAFF | LAURA DUNN , MOT , OTR / L VOLUNTEERS | SERENA C ., KYAH P . & SUSAN W . HORSE | JUAN “ DIEGO ”
Don ’ t let the small stature fool you , this cowboy comes ready to ride ! Boots and blue jeans , he certainly looks the part . As he and his team clip clop down the grounds , Caden is on the lookout for wildlife . Birds , squirrels , rabbits , groundhogs , anything that is nibbling grass or scurrying past always brings a smile to Caden ’ s face . These trails rides around the property provide the perfect atmosphere to observe nature . Occasionally , the breeze carries the rumbling of train tracks , followed by the powerful shout of a train whistle . Caden ’ s eyes follow the rolling train as it rambles down the track .
In just two sessions at Ride On St . Louis , Caden has shown so much improvement . This little trick rider even rides his horse Diego backwards . While this new sensation is loads of fun , sitting backwards on Diego engages Caden ’ s back muscles in ways they are not used when seated forwards . Different positions have really helped Caden gain core strength to support his spine , inner organs , balance and mobility . Caden has also been working on increasing his fine motor skills and following directions . Caden can do all types of activities on Diego that challenge and stimulate many parts of his mind and body : buttoning buttons , clipping clips in Diego ’ s mane , reaching for rings , placing items on targets and letter games in the arena are a few ways Caden is gaining strength and skills he can use every day . Caden loves to make his therapist and volunteers laugh and will tell stories and ask questions throughout his session . Keep up the great work and wonderful attitude Caden !
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