Wilmington College's Therapeutic Riding Camp for Children with Disabilities Fosters Summer Camp Inclusivity

PICTURED from the left are Tiffany Lester, associate professor of occupational therapy; Everett Chaney, rider; Jill Kelch, community volunteer; and Lauren Murphy, horse leader and equine business management student.

WILMINGTON, Ohio (July 30, 2025)—Wilmington College's graduate program in occupational therapy places a focus on preparing professionals to serve rural communities. Its mission came to life again at this summer's Therapeutic Riding Camp, which offered one of the enduring symbols of rural life — horseback riding — to area children with disabilities.

The five-day camp in late July at WC's Equine Center attracted 30 campers, ages six through mid-teens, from Clinton, Highland and other area counties. Their health challenges ranged from autism to social, emotional, and behavioral disabilities.

Erin Bales, Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program director, said the camp increases the availability of services in recreation and leisure for the area’s children. "It answers the quest, 'How do we help kiddos?' Our program strives to prepare its students to become problem-solvers and to promote community-based health and wellness in unique ways,” she said. "Enhancing quality of life is a big thing in occupational therapy!"

Split between morning and afternoon sessions, the campers engaged in various sensory activities including crafts, games and agriculture-related projects, and animals — until it was their turn to ride. Enter the horses and ponies selected for their gentle demeanor and ability to connect quickly with novice riders.

The riding camp went from an idea in class three years ago to involving all OT students and faculty members and partnering across the campus with WC's agriculture and equestrian areas. Javonne Mullins, assistant professor of agriculture and an experienced therapeutic riding instructor, has been a mainstay of the summer program.

Mullins explained the horses' movement has a "calming effect" and provides multi-sensory experiences involving touch, warmth, balance, and coordination. "Also, it is truly a hands-on learning experience for our students,” she added.

Indeed, Bales noted the camp was built into the OT students' course assignments, resulting in an "absolutely perfect" field experience. They became one-on-one "buddies" with the children, so there was always a familiar face around. "The goal is to create a certified program in therapeutic riding instruction and learning how to use the horse's movement as a treatment tool for occupational, speech, and physical therapy."

Bales expected her students to have a rich learning experience through the camp, but she was "pleasantly surprised" with how emotionally connected they became to the campers. "They could see the difference they made in people's lives," she added. "Our OT students are so proud and happy they got that experience."

Article Submitted by Wilmington College