Expanding Communication Through Equine Therapy at Pathways Academy

Pathways Academy students take part in an off-campus equine therapy experience, using guided interaction with horses to support communication, regulation, and sensory development.

Earlier this month, students from Pathways Academy took part in an off-campus field trip focused on animal-assisted therapy, specifically, through guided interaction with horses. For our nonverbal learners, experiences like these are more than recreational; they’re therapeutic extensions of the individualized supports we provide every day.

This unique opportunity allowed students to engage with horses through observation, touch, and guided activities. A second visit is planned next week, where several students will participate in supervised horseback riding to further build on the sensory, behavioral, and emotional benefits of the program.

The Value of Animal-Assisted Therapy for Nonverbal Students
Research continues to highlight the benefits of animal-assisted therapy for students with communication challenges and sensory processing needs. Key benefits include:

• Increased engagement and attention
• Support for self-regulation and emotional control
• Opportunities to practice motor coordination and following routines
• Strengthened nonverbal communication through gesture, presence, and interaction

These kinds of experiences directly support IEP goals while offering a calming, structured environment outside the classroom.

Collaborative Programming in Action
At Pathways, we serve students with communication and developmental needs through highly individualized programming and therapeutic supports. Opportunities like equine therapy help extend classroom learning into real-world contexts that foster skill development and personal growth.

Animal-assisted therapy creates a low-pressure setting where students can show growth in unexpected ways. We’re excited to expand this as part of our broader therapeutic approach.

- Peggy McDermott, Site Administrator Pathways Academy

Contact Peggy to learn more

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Connect With Us for Referrals
Pathways Academy is part of the Connect Academy network and specializes in programming for nonverbal learners and students with autism. We work closely with school districts and families to ensure individualized placements that support each student’s success.

If you're a district representative, case manager, or parent seeking more information about enrollment or referrals, please contact:

Peggy McDermott, Site Administrator Pathways Academy

Peggy A. McDermott
Site Administrator, Pathways Academy
630-822-8085 Ext. 2
[email protected]

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