What makes O.A.T.S. different? We're
more than just a place to
ride. For parents,
O.A.T.S. is a support
system and a place to network and share information. For riders, it’s a
place to be a “regular” kid through annual events like the
Mane Event
horse show and fair (held at the Oakland County 4H Fairgrounds in Davisburg every September), Easter, Halloween and holiday parties and
our Smiles on Saddles day camp.
Offering Alternative Therapy
with Smiles was founded in 1997 by Nancy Lee Heussner. Located
on 50 acres in Clarkston, Mich., today O.A.T.S. and its staff of caring,
dedicated and enthusiastic instructors and volunteers provide
equine-assisted therapy on a
weekly basis, year-round (thanks to our heated indoor arena), to more than 100 children
and
adults with a wide variety of physical and/or emotional disabilities. To
see our program in action, view one of our videos, browse our printed
newsletter, or better yet, pay us a visit at the farm!
Therapeutic riding:
•Improves balance, flexibility, muscle
strength and tone.
•Develops communication, listening and
attention skills
•Encourages social interaction
•Builds confidence and self-esteem
The goal for every rider at O.A.T.S. is to ride independently (without assistance from a leader and/or sidewalker), no matter the disability. While not always possible, the important thing is that it’s encouraged.
•Improves balance, flexibility, muscle
strength and tone.
•Develops communication, listening and
attention skills
•Encourages social interaction
•Builds confidence and self-esteem
The goal for every rider at O.A.T.S. is to ride independently (without assistance from a leader and/or sidewalker), no matter the disability. While not always possible, the important thing is that it’s encouraged.
At O.A.T.S.,
safety is priority #1.
We also strive to engage our riders from the moment they arrive until they leave. Riders are asked to converse, recognize horses and volunteers by name, assist with leading horses out and untacking, notice their surroundings, participate in games and activities, test their limits and most of all, have fun and SMILE. Parents, caregivers, teachers and doctors are often surprised by what our riders can do!
safety is priority #1.
We also strive to engage our riders from the moment they arrive until they leave. Riders are asked to converse, recognize horses and volunteers by name, assist with leading horses out and untacking, notice their surroundings, participate in games and activities, test their limits and most of all, have fun and SMILE. Parents, caregivers, teachers and doctors are often surprised by what our riders can do!
