Transforming lives through joyful movement

Rider Stories

“Shane was recommended for hippotherapy from his PT in a unique technique to strengthen his core. What Shane got from hippotherapy is SO MUCH MORE. He was extra cautious because of his core and not feeling balanced, he was super apprehensive about trying new things using his body but now that is no longer the case. Shane is now sitting straighter, walking with more symmetry, being adventurous and trying new activities with his body, and moving his whole body in ways we didn’t know would be possible. He is excited every week for his therapy, he barely says goodbye before saddling up. This therapy has been undeniably life changing for our boy and we are so grateful for the CJ Kids Inc’s whole staff for working with our little guy and helping him become the best version of himself.”

“Asher has been riding for a number of years at this point and every session we continue to see him make progress in mobility, flexibility and communication. In particular he continues to build core strength. This helps with his posture and his overall endurance. Riding is also very regulating for Asher. He enjoys the movement of being on the horse, especially when he gets to trot! We always notice more engagement & vocalization from Asher post a hippotherapy session.”

“After being diagnosed with ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and socio-emotional challenges, Søren was referred to CJ Kids Inc. by his PE teacher…Dianne and the CJ Kids Inc. team have been an essential part of Søren’s physical and socio-emotional development…Over the last three years, I’ve seen incredible growth in him, from improved posture, physical coordination, and muscle strength to better executive functioning and overall happiness. He has gained so much confidence through his riding lessons and loves brushing his horse after every session…Being on a horse has allowed him to relax, follow multi-step tasks, and be more receptive to learning. It’s heartwarming to see him so comfortable and engaged with the mentors who accompany him. Watching him thrive during these sessions has been an absolute blessing.”

“Jayce was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as an infant. We have forced him into therapies his whole life and it has been really hard. With hippotherapy he pulls me out of the house to come. He has so much fun he doesn’t even realize the incredible impact it is having on his body. His orthopedist stresses opening his hips and balancing on the horse has helped this so much. Through “games” he is twisting & maneuvering his body in ways that he never does otherwise, and watching him lift up onto his legs is truly incredible. I am so thankful to CJ Kids and Dianne.”

See More Testimonies Below!

  • "Xiomara has gained such confidence with her work on the horses. This has improved her mobility, flexibility and strength. Horse therapy has targeted all her skills including occupational, physical and even speech. She never sits as tall as she does when she’s on a horse. The volunteers and instructors at CJ Kids are fantastic and extremely supportive of each kid and their unique needs."

  • "Violet has blossomed in many areas since beginning hippotherapy, her core has strengthened, she is confident and secure in herself and is following directions. Violet is very calm and at peace after hippotherapy sessions. She loves her therapists and looks forward to getting on the horse."

  • “We have been with Dianne and her team for about four years. Our son has grown from a boy who couldn’t walk to a boy who can jump, run, swim and practice in many different activities. We are so happy to be part of the community and to be supported through our journey.”

  • "Collier has been riding now for over 7 years. We have seen so much improvement in his posture, balance, and upper body strength. He loves to ride and we look forward to each season and working with Dianne. She has been a gem to work with and we look forward to more successful seasons."

  • "Tyler’s hippotherapy is transformative. Hippo targets his trauma in a way other modalities cannot."

    Tyler, AGE

  • “Dan has been attending hippotherapy for several years. Dan has shown great improvement in his trunk control, midline reach, head control and bilateral arm/hand reach. Dan enjoys attending the weekly sessions. We see at home a great improvement in overall tone. He has great range of motion in his hips. We love the team.”