Build Social Skills with the Help of Horses!

Join Our Equine-Assisted Therapy
Social Skills Group

Where Pre-Teens Discover Confidence, Connection, and Communication Skills

Is Your Child Struggling to Connect?

Does your pre-teen struggle to make friends and engage in dynamic conversations, or feel anxious in social situations? You're not alone. Many children between ages 9-12 face challenges with:

●Starting conversations or knowing what to say
●Reading social cues and understanding body language
●Managing big emotions in social settings
●Building confidence to be themselves around peers
●Trusting others and forming genuine friendships
●Speaking up when they need to advocate for themselves

Traditional social skills classes often feel like school—there are more rules to remember and pressure to perform.
Our Equine-Assisted Therapy Social Skills Group offers something completely different: a natural, judgment-free environment where your child can learn and practice essential social skills alongside gentle horses and supportive peers.

Why Horses Are the Perfect
Social Skills Teachers

Horses don't judge; they respond.
This response makes them ideal partners for children who feel self-conscious or anxious around others.
Here's what makes our equine approach so effective:

Immediate, Honest Feedback
Horses mirror human emotions and energy instantly. If your child is nervous, the horse senses it. If they're calm and confident, the horse responds positively. This real-time feedback helps children understand how their emotions and body language affect their interactions with others.

Non-Verbal Communication Masters
Since horses communicate primarily through body language, energy, and intention, children naturally develop:
●Awareness of personal space and appropriate boundaries
●Understanding of non-verbal cues like posture and facial expressions
●Confidence in their presence and how they show up in relationships
●Ability to "read the room" and adjust their approach accordingly

Natural Confidence Builders
Successfully connecting with a 1,200-pound horse is incredibly empowering! Children discover:
●They can influence and guide through calm, clear communication
●Their authentic self is worthy of trust and connection
●They have more inner strength than they realized
●Mistakes are opportunities to learn, and not failures

Patience and Empathy Teachers
Horses require patience, consistency, and empathy—qualities that make great friends. Children learn:
●To slow down and listen
●To consider the feelings and perspectives of others
●To work in a team toward common goals
●To show kindness and compassion even when frustrated

What Your Child Will Learn

Communication & Listening Skills
Emotional Regulation
Confidence & Self-Awareness
Teamwork & Trust

What to Expect: A Typical Session

The Setting

Our sessions occur in a peaceful, natural environment where children can relax and be themselves.
The outdoor setting provides a welcome break from classroom pressures and screen time.

Ground-Based Activities Only

All activities happen on the ground (no riding), making them accessible to children of all physical abilities and comfort levels.

Professional Support

We lead each session with licensed therapists trained in equine-assisted therapy and adolescent development.

Program Details

Who Can Join

  • Ages 9-12: Specifically designed for pre-teens navigating this crucial developmental stage

  • All experience levels welcome: No previous horse experience is required

  • Small group setting: Maximum 6 participants to ensure personalized attention

  • Safe and supportive: Carefully screened participants who are ready to support each other's growth

Program Structure

  • 6-Week Series: Comprehensive program allowing time for real skill development

  • Weekly 60-minute sessions: Enough time for meaningful activities and reflection

  • Consistent schedule: Same day and time each week to build routine and anticipation

  • Weather-appropriate: Indoor and covered options available for all seasons

Investment in Your Child's Future

  • Program Fee: $360 per participant for the complete 6-session series

  • Payment Options: Check or credit card accepted

  • Value: Only $60 per session for specialized therapy and life skills development

  • What's Included: All activities, horse care, professional facilitation, and take-home resources

Ready to Give Your Child This Gift?

No horse experience is necessary – just a willingness to grow and connect!

Imagine your child coming home excited to tell you about their day, confident in their ability to make friends, and equipped with easy tools to navigate social situations. This transformation happens naturally when children are given the right environment, support, and opportunities to practice.

Our Equine-Assisted Therapy Social Skills Group provides all of this and more. Your child will develop essential life skills and experience the joy of connecting with horses and forming friendships with peers who understand their journey.

Next Steps

Contact Alyssa Friedenberg to learn more: Email: alyssa@kindlehill.org

During your conversation, Alyssa can answer questions about:

●Whether this program is right for your child
●Specific dates and times for upcoming groups
●What to expect during the first session
●How to prepare your child for this new experience

Spaces are limited to ensure quality attention for each participant. Contact us today to secure your child's spot in this transformative program.

At Kindle Hill Foundation, we believe every child deserves to feel confident, connected, and capable of building meaningful relationships. Our horses are ready to help your pre-teen discover these gifts within themselves.