Children with disabilities and diverse needs receive innovative physical, occupational and speech therapy at Carmel-headquartered Children's TherAplay, using the movement of horses to accelerate physical, emotional and behavioral development through a medical approach called hippotherapy — named such because the Greek word hippos means horse.
Kathy Pelletier, executive director of nonprofit The Children's TherAplay Foundation, Inc., says this practice is all about combined dynamic movement. She explains it works because a horse’s pelvis shares the same three-dimensional planes as the human pelvis.
"By applying different combinations of patterns, speeds and riding postures, our licensed therapists provide precisely the sensory and neurological input each child will benefit from most. Receiving movement transmitted by the horse’s pelvis helps kiddos develop physical skills essential for daily life," she adds. "Our children experience transformational outcomes through these unique therapies."
Located at 9919 Towne Road, this specialty trained team provides individualized, one-on-one therapy in their child-centered, pediatric outpatient clinic for Central Indiana children, ages 18 months to 13 years. Their hours of operations span Mondays through Fridays.
Amelia Brewers, TherAplay's marketing and communications coordinator, says they also enjoy hosting special events, such as the upcoming Horse Birth'Neigh' Party on Friday, Jan. 30, from 5:30-7 p.m. This open house-style event is free and open for all families. She promises fun activities including face painting and birthday card writing, plus a horse meet and greet, with food and drinks provided.
The third annual Pickle for Ponies will be held in Carmel at 3rd Shot Pickle, 4400 W. 96th St., on Thursday, Feb. 26. Brewers says registration opens at 6 p.m. with round-robin style competition beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Additionally, Brewers says a golf event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, at Plum Creek Golf Club.
"Therapy horse and stall sponsorships help keep our therapy horses healthy and happy by offsetting necessary costs, ensuring the best possible care for our horses who work so hard for our kiddos," says Pelletier.
Additionally, qualified horses can be donated or leased to TherAplay.
For young horse enthusiasts, The Children's TherAplay Junior Board is a philanthropic and volunteer opportunity for current high school students. Founded in 2019, the Junior Board is led by a president and comprised of general board members. Brewers says these members advocate for children with disabilities and spread awareness about the TherAplay Foundation through community engagement.