Can Horse Therapy Help Kids with Autism? A Small Study Explores Potential Benefits

A small research study from Bosnia and Herzegovina looked at whether equine-assisted therapy (horse therapy) could help improve social and communication skills in children with autism. While the results were mixed, they offer some interesting possibilities for families to consider.

What Did the Study Find?

Researchers worked with four autistic children (ages 8-10) who participated in horse therapy sessions once a week for 10 weeks. According to the study published in the Journal of Special Education and Rehabilitation:

• Two of the four children showed improvement in several areas
• Positive changes were noted in speech, socialization, sensory awareness, and behavior
• The therapy was measured using the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC)

Why This Matters for Autism Families

Many parents seek alternative therapies to complement traditional autism interventions. This study suggests horse therapy might be worth exploring for some children, particularly in areas like:

• Social interaction skills
• Communication
• Sensory processing

Important Limitations

Parents should note this was a very small preliminary study:

• Only four children participated
• Results weren't consistent across all participants
• More research is needed to understand who might benefit most

Considering Horse Therapy?

If you're interested in exploring equine-assisted therapy:

• Look for programs with experience working with autistic children
• Consult with your child's therapy team first
• Start with a trial session to assess your child's comfort level

While not a magic solution, this study adds to growing evidence that animal-assisted therapies may offer benefits for some autistic children. As always, what works varies greatly from child to child.

Original Study: "The Effects of Equine-Assisted Therapy in Improving the Psycho-Social Functioning of Children with Autism" (Published September 30, 2011)