Riding Warriors FAQ for Families
Who does Riding Warriors serve?
Riding Warriors at Sams Ranch serves families with children ages 8-18 with physical, emotional, and developmental challenges.
What qualifications and training does Sams Ranch have to host therapeutic riding sessions?
Our team includes skilled professionals with expertise in horsemanship, emergency management, and trauma-informed care. We are members of PATH International’s Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) program and trained in the HEAL (Human-Equine Alliance for Learning) model. Additionally, our team has experience supporting individuals with autism, disabilities, sensory issues, behavioral challenges, and mental health needs. We are committed to provide a safe, supportive space where children can heal and grow through the power of horses.
Why horses?
Horses are intuitive animals that sense emotions and respond to body language, helping build trust, confidence, and emotional connections in therapy.
What are the benefits of horse therapy?
Therapy can improve motor skills, communication, emotional regulation, and build confidence. It’s a holistic approach to healing and growth.
Is horse therapy safe?
While there are risks with working in environments with horses, Riding Warriors will only use trained horses and follow strict safety protocols. Proper supervision, communication, and the use of safety equipment (like helmets) ensure a safe experience.
What should parents/guardians expect during a RW session?
During our 6-week sessions, your rider will start by learning horse safety. From there, they’ll move on to activities like feeding, petting, grooming, and bonding with their horse. As their confidence grows, they’ll practice saddling, guiding, and leading their horse through simple obstacle courses, with the ultimate goal of riding their horse with assistance.
How are riders matched to a horse?
Patients are matched based on their size, needs, and specific therapeutic goals. Michael Sams and his team ensure the pairing is appropriate for the best possible outcome.
What if my child is scared of the horse?
We know not every child will have the same comfort level or ability. If a child is scared, we take gradual steps to build comfort and trust with the horse.
How can horse therapy facilitate change in a rider with physical disabilities?
The rhythmic motion of the horse mimics walking, providing therapeutic benefits for coordination and posture. Horseback riding strengthens muscles, improves balance, and supports motor skills development.
Is my child qualified for the Riding Warriors program?
Eligibility depends on the rider’s individual needs and goals. We assess each case to determine if our program is the right fit. During the application review, our Executive Director will reach out to the parent/guardian to discuss the rider's needs in more detail.
How long and how often will my child receive therapy services?
We are currently offering multiple 6-week sessions throughout the year. Each session takes place once a week, with each class lasting 1 hour.
How much does the program cost and who pays for it?
Riding Warriors at Sams Ranch is supported by generous donors, allowing us to offer therapeutic riding sessions at no cost to the families enrolled in the program.
Do I need a professional referral for services?
No professional referral is required. Please contact us at samsranch@ridingwarriors.org to discuss your specific needs.
What should my rider wear?
Riders should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and dress in layers, as the arena may be cooler/warmer than indoor/outdoor spaces. Closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots are required for safety.