Being around any animal can be calming and comforting, and horses offer a particularly powerful benefit. At Think Like a Pony, we give children the opportunity to experience this unique connection with these sensitive, intuitive animals.
However, we don’t stop there. We teach children how to build relationships with horses based on trust, respect and clear communication. In doing so, they develop lifelong relationship skills, self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Many of the young people referred to us feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or unable to navigate their emotions. Through working with ponies children learn how to build genuine trust, communicate with clarity and form healthy, respectful relationships. These are skills that empower them to transform their own lives.
Our approach is unique because it’s not just about being around horses. It is about learning how to listen, reflect and communicate in a way that fosters connection and understanding. Each session is more than time with a pony. It is a chance for the child to develop their connection with themselves and with others and the world around them. as they explore how to build emotional resilience, self-regulation and confidence.
At the heart of our programme is teaching children strategies that help them take control of their own well-being. They learn to:
By learning how to build a relationship with a pony, children discover how to build stronger relationships with people. They develop a deep understanding of communication, body language and trust - essential skills that extend far beyond the arena.
Our programme is designed for children and young people facing a wide range of social, emotional or mental health challenges. This may include, but is not limited to, anxiety, isolation, trauma, low self-esteem, non-attendance at school, challenging behaviour at home, in school or in the community, or being at risk of exploitation or offending. We also support those known to services such as CAMHS or the Youth Justice Service. Through a structured, relationship-based approach, we help young people build confidence, communication skills and emotional resilience that support them both in the present and throughout their lives.
