Reflection

On completion of this blog I now am more aware of the wonderful benefits that riding therapy can provide for autistic children. Writing this blog has made me more passionate and excited for future practice as an Occupational Therapist.

This blog looked at the physical, social and psychological aspects of autism and how riding therapy could enhance these areas of their life.

I love the fact that riding therapy is a fun treatment option, as many autistic children have to endure tedious therapy sessions that they may find difficult and not enjoyable. Riding therapy is is a hidden therapeutic tool, as the child does not even realise that they are in a therapy session. Riding offers the autistic child success, which will increase their self esteem and confidence, this is something that I feel is very important for autistic children as success is something that they may find difficult to achieve. The skills that the child learns at riding therapy can help to increase the child's performance in other areas of their life, such as physical performance and social interactions with peers.

I think that riding therapy is a very appropriate setting for Occupational Therapists to work as it provides a very powerful equation for increasing the individuals functional ability.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog, I hope that you have found it interesting. Feel free to write any comments or ask any questions :).