The human-animal bond is a powerful, transformative tool! TRAK offers ground-based Equine Assisted Learning sessions to children and young adults in a group-based setting, focusing on all aspects of age-appropriate life skills. Sessions incorporate skill-building and training with hands-on work with our horses to:
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Increase awareness of non-verbal cues/communication.
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Build trust and confidence.
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Increase emotional regulation and responsiveness.
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Improve boundaries and appropriate communication.
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Help members identify emotions.
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Improve impulsivity / focus / concentration.
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Increase problem-solving skills.
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Build empathy
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Encourage healthy social connections/activities.
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Improve tolerance of frustration and stress.
Horses are prey animals. This means that if they feel uncertain or are in danger, their fight-or-flight response is almost always to flee. They also have a strong awareness of emotional temperament and nonverbal cues. In other words, they can read humans and our behavior very well! Horses are also large animals, which means you can’t tell them what to do or force them to do a certain task just because you want them to. Working with horses requires clients to be aware of their behavior. Due to their consistent authenticity, horses are among the best teachers and guides for personal growth and development, frequently serving as a mirror of dynamics in the client’s life.
**We always start with an evaluation to determine the best placement**
Evaluation – $55
Group Lesson – $55
Private Lesson – $100
**Starts at 5 years of age**
If you have questions, please email McKinley at mckinleymadril@traktucson.org.
ESA Accepted
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Testimonials
Richard Harris
“Incredible what this group is doing with these kids. Thanks for all you do, just amazing. IF you are wondering if you should be a part of what TRAK is doing stop wondering, pick up the phone and give them a call. You won’t regret it. Top notch staff, leadership, and facilities.”
Wilmadeen Minger
“My son and I volunteer here and we love it! Even though you’re working it is a lot of fun too. They have petting zoo birthday parties that the kids absolutely love! They also have horseback riding lessons. The atmosphere is relaxed and it’s so much fun here!”
Lee Buzzard
“TRAK Ranch is where you will find a family of people doing the right things for the Tucson community. It is a great place to interact with so many animals, riding lessons, a fantastic site for birthday parties for all ages. If you have not stopped by for at least a visit, you are missing Tucson’s true gems.”
Melanie McKissick
“WOW, what a wonderful staff and crew these guys have. Very kind and caring people who want to better the community and the children who live in it. I HIGHLY recommend TRAK ranch in Tucson.”
Michael J. Monroe
“TRAK RANCH is nothing short of awesome. Scott Tilley works tirelessly to provide incredible programs for the therapeutic benefit for those in need and does so in a clean, attractive environment. Tucson is is so fortunate to have Scott and TRAK. Everyone should stop by and learn about and see all the wonderful programs offered at the ranch.”