| Students at Miracles in Motion enjoy a great
many benefits, including one of the most important -- the joy of riding
a horse! Socialization, physical activity, body awareness, and many
other good things can come from riding and interacting with the horses
and volunteers. Our ProgramsTherapeutic Riding ClassesDuring the March to November program year, Miracles offers an average of 17 classes each week. Classes consist of 5-6 students, 10-15 volunteers and a NARHA certified instructor. Students are grouped according to age and ability. The instructors (with input from therapists, parents, teachers, and, of course, students) set the goals for each class. These goals range from holding the reins appropriately to learning the posting trot. Lesson plans are designed to provide students with the opportunity to succeed. These classes are 50 minutes long and are usually scheduled 2-3 classes in a row during morning and evening time slots. Therapeutic Driving Classes The driving program began in fall 2005 and serves students who are either not able to ride and/or those wishing to expand their equestrian skills. The student and the NARHA certified driving instructor sit in a vehicle pulled by the horse. Benefits of therapeutic driving include: increased balance, motor planning, spatial awareness, self-confidence and core strength. Additional training is provided to those wishing to volunteer in driving classes. Driving classes are scheduled during the mornings, late afternoons and early evening and are limited to 3-4 students who participate in grooming, harnessing and driving Mr. Joe. Classes last 60-90 minutes. Hippotherapy During hippotherapy sessions, the horse is used as a dynamic (moving) base of support as a therapist works one-on-one with a client to improve the client’s functional ability. Specially trained Physical and Occupational Therapists from both Cedar Rapids hospitals are able to offer their clients the opportunity to participate in this form of therapy because Miracles in Motion provides the facility (site, horses, equipment, and volunteers) and supports the training of the therapists. The hippotherapy schedule is set by the hospitals and days and times vary. Volunteers will receive additional training. The Leg Up Program In 2002, we expanded programming to include the Leg Up Program for area youth, aged 12 to 18, who are deemed “at risk.” Students are referred by area educators, parents, residential facility staff, and therapists. They participate in a 3-part curriculum including horse care (feed, healthcare, grooming, tacking), equestrian knowledge (horse behavior, conformation, breeds, colors, etc.) and riding skills. Students work in teams with our volunteers under the supervision of a certified riding instructor and the staff of the referring organization. They learn and demonstrate riding, equestrian knowledge and sportsmanship/leadership skills. Leg Up classes are scheduled in the afternoon and last two hours. Private Lessons For students wishing to progress at a faster pace, private lessons are available. Please email or call if you are interested. The fee for private lessons is $35/lesson. Below, Susan Aukes drives Mr. Joe, much like the students in therapeutic driving program. Program Director Sue Bock achieved certification in this specialized equine activity in 2005.  |
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Mailing address: P.O. Box 14, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-0014 Phone: (319) 857-4141, Fax: (319) 857-4146 E-mail: miracles@netins.net
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