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The Donkeys of the Heart is a 501(c)3 organization providing therapeutic and educational opportunities to children (starting at four years old), adolescents with cognitive, mental, and behavioral challenges. 

All sessions are conducted by Sophie Rainer certified by Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) as Equine Specialist Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL). 

In Europe, donkeys are frequently used in Equine Assisted Services to address mental health challenges. 

It is called" Donkey Mediation"

Only private lesson openings available for therapeutic/adaptive riding lessons:

• Weight limited to maximum 110 pounds, (tack included)
• Hight limited to 5.6 feet,
• Physical Benefits, 
• Improved balance, strength, range of motion,
• Improved coordination and motor skills, faster reflex,
• Improved  respiration and circulation
• Sensory integration,
• Psychological Benefit,
• Sense of well-being,
• Improved self-confidence,
• Improved risk-management abilities,
• Emotional control, self-discipline.
• Social Benefits
• Friendship
• Interaction with others, animals, nature
• mproved social skills (one-on-one/group)
• Educational Benefits
• Proven to increase remedial reading, math, and science skills.
• Greater listening skills and focus
• Sequencing, patterning, motor planning skills
• Visual and spatial perception/differentiation
• Improved eye-hand coordination

This activities occurs “on the ground.” It’s used to help people of all ages. 

• EAL is an experiential approach using donkeys as co-facilitators. EAL provides opportunities to learn a variety of life skills. Social and emotional skills are developed through participation in purposeful activities. 
• EAL focuses on: 
• Behavioral regulation, 
• Social skills, 
• Communication,
• Problem solving,
• Cooperation, 
• Relationship skills,
• Decision making,
• Goal setting,
• Empowerment,
• Focus,
• Respect,
• Confidence,
• Self-esteem,