Equine-Assisted Therapy with Miniature Horses for Children with Developmental Disabilities | Temekunga Farms
- Daniela Juri
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 11
Temekunga Farms in Temecula, CA offers transformative equine-assisted therapy with certified miniature therapy horses, designed specifically to support children with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and sensory processing challenges.
How Equine-Assisted Therapy Helps Children with Developmental Disabilities
Our Hippocrates Program uses ground-based, non-riding equine therapy to provide children with a safe, engaging environment to improve:
Social skills
Emotional regulation
Sensory integration
Motor coordination
Self-esteem and confidence
Unlike traditional therapy, children interact directly with our calm, intuitive miniature horses by grooming, leading (through obstacle courses), and simply being in their peaceful presence.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Equine Therapy for Neurodiverse Children
Scientific research shows equine-assisted interventions can improve outcomes for children with developmental delays and neurological differences:
A 2023 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found significant improvement in social interaction, sensory processing, and communication skills among children with autism participating in equine-assisted activities. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4475278/
A broader systematic review on equine-assisted therapy in children with disabilities showed increased mobility, emotional expression, interpersonal interaction, and quality of life. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33084452/
Why Miniature Therapy Horses Are Ideal
Temekunga Farms’ miniature therapy horses are gentle, well-trained, and METSA-certified to work with children and adults in both on-site and mobile sessions.
Benefits of working with miniature horses include:
Approachable and non-intimidating size for small children and wheelchair users
Better suited for indoor therapy visits, schools, and medical settings
Excellent for children with tactile sensitivity and special sensory needs
Each horse undergoes extensive desensitization to ensure they are calm around crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, loud noises, and unfamiliar environments.
Tailored Support for Children with Autism & Other Developmental Needs
The Hippocrates Program is designed with trauma-informed care and sensory inclusion in mind. Activities may include:
Grooming and brushing for tactile stimulation
Leading horses for confidence and coordination
Observing body language to foster emotional awareness
Structured routines to promote predictability and focus
Children build trust, express emotions, and develop a sense of agency—often leading to breakthrough moments that complement speech therapy, occupational therapy, and school interventions.
Parent Feedback & Lasting Results
Parents report that their children experience:
✅ More eye contact
✅ Improved calmness and emotional regulation
✅ More willingness to try new things
✅ Increased verbal and nonverbal communication
Equine Therapy in Temecula – On-Site & Mobile Services Available
We proudly serve families in Temecula, Murrieta, Riverside County, and surrounding areas.
We offer:
One-on-one and siblings equine-assisted therapy sessions
Group workshops
Mobile therapy horse visits for hospitals, centers, and community events
Our sessions are facilitated by trained professionals with experience in trauma-informed care, coaching, mental health, and equine behavior.
Learn More or Book a Session
Interested in equine-assisted therapy for your child? We welcome you to explore our programs or schedule a session.
🔗 Visit temekunga.com
📍 Located in Temecula, CA
Keywords: equine-assisted therapy for children, miniature therapy horses, autism equine therapy Temecula, therapy for developmental disabilities, sensory therapy with horses, equine therapy Riverside County
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