Equine Assisted Learning

What is Equine Assisted Learning?

It is the professional field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning. Because of its effectiveness, it is considered a short-term, or brief approach.

EAL is experiential in nature. This means the participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviours and patterns.

The focus of EAL is not riding or horsemanship. 95% of EAL is done on the ground. The focus of EAL involves the use of activities involving the horses, which requires the client or group to apply certain skills.

Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking, problem-solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork, relationships, confidence and attitude are several examples of the tools utilised and developed by EAL. EAL is a powerful and effective approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families and groups. EAL addresses a variety of human development needs and mental health, including behavioural issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and communication needs.

Why horses?

• Horses challenge clients in a non-threatening manner.
• Horses rapidly break down defence barriers.
• Horses provide immediate cause and effect situations.
• Horses captivate and hold attention.
• Horses promote change from dysfunctional patterns to successful ones.

Horses are large and powerful, which creates a natural opportunity for some to overcome fear and develop confidence. Accomplishing a task involving the horse, in spite of those fears, creates confidence and provides for wonderful metaphors when dealing with other intimidating and challenging situations in life. Horses are very much like humans in that they are social animals. They have defined roles within the herd. They would rather be with their peers. They have distinct personalities, attitudes and moods. An approach that works with one horse may not work with another. At times they seem stubborn and defiant. They like to have fun. In other words, horses provide vast opportunities for metaphorical learning. Using metaphors, in discussion or activity, is an effective technique when working with even the most challenging individuals or groups. Horses require work, whether in caring for them or working with them. In an era when immediate gratification and the easy way are the norm, horses require people to be engaged in physical and mental work to be successful, a valuable characteristic in all aspects of life.

Most importantly, horses have the ability to mirror exactly what human body language is telling them. Many people will complain, “The horse doesn't like me” etc. But the lesson to be learned is that if they change themselves, the horses respond differently. Horses are honest, which makes them especially powerful messengers.