Learning with Horses
Throughout history, humans have shared a unique bond with animals, and horses were a central part of
daily life until the modern age. However, as technology has advanced, horses have gradually disappeared from our day-to-day lives. In the past, you’d encounter horses everywhere—walking down a city street or working in the fields. Over the last century, they’ve become less visible, and as a result, our connection with these extraordinary animals has faded.
Recently, as people have sought meaningful ways to reach those facing challenges, from veterans to individuals with disabilities, horses have emerged as powerful therapeutic partners. Much like support dogs, equine therapy has been shown to benefit individuals dealing with post-traumatic stress (PTSD) and other emotional or psychological struggles. Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) builds on this therapeutic foundation, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain self-awareness, empathy, and insight through interaction with horses.
Why Horses?
Horses possess an extraordinary sensitivity to the unspoken. While we’re accustom to pets like dogs
responding to our moods, horses offer an even deeper form of perception. As prey animals, horses rely on heightened senses to detect and respond to potential threats. This instinct allows them to pick up on subtle cues in their surroundings, including the emotional states of people. EAL facilitators leverage these responses in a learning environment, helping participants become more attuned to their own behaviors and emotions.
When people approach a horse, the horse’s immediate reaction can reveal volumes about the person’s energy, emotions, or intentions. EAL facilitators are trained to interpret these responses and guide participants in understanding the dynamics at play, making horses powerful partners in team-building and personal growth.
EAL Classes: Team-Building and Leadership Development
Our EAL sessions focus on team-building and leadership development for groups of five to ten people. Through a blend of discussion and hands-on activities with horses, participants engage in a process of discovery that highlights communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. Each session follows a structured approach:
- Intake: The EAL facilitator meets with a representative from the company or client to discuss goals and needs.
- Session Outline: A tailored session outline is developed, which is reviewed and approved by the client.
- Scheduling: The facilitator confirms the location, time, and number of participants to ensure a smooth experience.
- Pre-Event Meeting: Prior to the event, we meet with participants to set expectations and prepare them for the experience.
- Event: The EAL event unfolds, with single or multi-day options available, blending interactive activities with horses and group discussions.
- Post-Event Wrap-Up: After the event, we provide a report and meet with the client to discuss the outcomes and gather feedback.
EAL sessions are designed to help teams uncover solutions and strategies that can be directly applied to their work lives. Through the unique insights that horses bring, participants come away with a fresh perspective on leadership, collaboration, and personal growth.
Contact Trotter to get your session set up today.