In Namibia, Susan de Meyer is at the helm of a unique initiative that employs the nurturing presence of horses to assist children with various learning challenges, including ADHD and autism. De Meyerโs program, situated just outside Windhoek, the countryโs capital, serves as a beacon of hope for these children, bringing together the power and tenderness of horses into a therapeutic experience.
Each weekday morning, her paddock comes alive with the joy and activity of eight to ten kids from special schools. Under de Meyerโs watchful eye, these children engage with the horses through riding, grooming, and speaking to them, fostering communication and a bond that transcends their disabilities.
De Meyer, who grew up on a farm and formed a lifelong connection with horses, recognizes their special ability to interact without judgment. Unlike human interactions that can often feel overwhelming for these children, horses offer a non-judgmental presence. โThe horse is the hero in this whole situation because these kids donโt want to be around a lot of people,โ de Meyer explains.
โEnabling Through the Horse,โ de Meyerโs program, has gained recognition, earning support from the Namibian Equestrian Federation and an award from the International Equestrian Federation for its demonstration of horsesโ sensitivity and intuition. Horse therapy is increasingly acknowledged by autism groups and those aiding children with learning disabilities for its therapeutic benefits. This form of animal therapy also extends to veterans with PTSD and has provided comfort to wildfire survivors in Hawaii.
De Meyer humorously refers to her equine team as โtwo-and-a-half horses,โ consisting of two ArabiansโFaranah, a white mare, and Lansha, a brown geldingโas well as Bonzi, a miniature horse that stands at the perfect height for younger children. De Meyer finds Arabians particularly effective for therapy due to their imposing yet approachable size, which helps instill self-confidence in children.
When children stroke and communicate with the horses, they undergo profound changes, developing self-esteem and overcoming their fears. The therapy serves children with conditions such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and fetal alcohol syndrome, enhancing their motor skills, muscle coordination, balance, and posture. These benefits prove invaluable for children who struggle with conventional learning environments.
The programโs success has sparked interest beyond Namibia, with inquiries from other African and Asian countries looking to adopt similar initiatives. Chriszell Louw, a teacher from Dagbreek School, praises the transformative impact of the program, noting students grow more communicative and eager with their interactions with the horses.
De Meyer involves the children in simple but empowering activities like stretching their arms while riding, promoting balance and freedom. These activities not only hone their physical abilities but also bring exuberant smiles, giving them a sensation akin to soaring. As de Meyer aptly puts it, โWe make the world different for these kids.โ