Social pedagogical horse activities

Who is it for?

The activity is based on the interaction between horse and human and takes place in the peace of nature, on the horse's terms.
The goal is to support the client's well-being, emotional skills, social growth and everyday structure.

💗 For special needs children
💗 For mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation

What are you waiting for?

For special needs children: A horse helps a child to recognize emotions, calm down and communicate safely. Riding supports motor skills, and caring for a horse strengthens self-confidence and a sense of responsibility. The activity is suitable for children living with autism spectrum disorders, concentration difficulties or learning disabilities.

For mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation: The presence of a horse calms and helps to focus on the moment. The activity supports self-esteem, emotional expression and everyday routines. The acceptance experienced with a horse and working in nature strengthen recovery and a sense of connection.

Rehabilitation periods:

Familiarization visit €75 - The customer has the option to choose a one-time "familiarization visit". This allows the customer to get to know me and our horses in peace and assess whether they feel comfortable starting a longer period with us.

3-month rehabilitation period €1000 - The three-month rehabilitation period includes 10 visits to our stables. The period is built together with the customer, and we draw up a detailed plan of the goals and the steps needed to achieve them. In the meetings, we progress towards the set goals individually according to the customer's needs. The activity is not KELA-supported, but you can apply for a payment commitment for it through your own social welfare office.

Education & experience: I graduated in November 2025 from the continuing education course in social pedagogical horse activities (KAO & University of Eastern Finland) and have experience working with special needs children. According to feedback, many children have felt safe and found a new way to express themselves alongside horses – thanks to my sensitive, gentle colleagues for that too.

I have completed supplementary training in socio-pedagogical equine activities and developed a quality and impact handbook for my service, earning me the SPHT(R) trademark. I am a member of the Association for Socio-Pedagogical Equine Activities.