for 5+ years old

Adaptive Horsemanship Program

What are adaptive riding lessons and are they right for me?

The Adaptive Horsemanship Program is one of the most popular services offered at Mandy’s Farm. For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the program is proven to strengthen muscles, balance, and coordination. It also builds confidence, patience, and self-esteem. It is uniquely designed to build skills in horsemanship and develop a trusting relationship between horse and rider. These classes provide riders, of all experience levels, with the opportunity to learn principles of horse handling, animal care, and Western and/or English riding techniques.

who is this for and what skills will you learn?

5 years or older​. All abilities welcome​. No experience required​. Build confidence and practice boundaries. Build and maintain physical strength​. Explore new social-emotional skills​. Learn about animal safety and care​.

Smile and experience the joy of riding and beauty of the outdoors.

Horsemanship lessons have limited spots available. Please use the contact form at the bottom of the webpage to inquire about lessons.

Free Horse Camps For Youth With
Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

Program Funding Supporters:​

The Con Alma Health Foundation and the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division

There is a fee for this program. However, this program has been funded at no cost through the Con Alma Health Foundation and the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division’s Outdoor Equity Fund for youth with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

New Mexico outdoor Division and Con Alma logos with orange background

What is it

Free Horse Camps for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience the joy of riding and the beauty of the outdoors.

Details

These sessions are for ages of 5–18 years of age. Lessons include grooming and tacking your horses, riding and untacking, grooming, and putting the horse away.

Interested in Attending a Free Horse Camp?

Email Aimee Lisanti at aimee@mandsfarm.org for inquiries and to register. 

Contact Us

Shannon Burt​

Barn and Animal Coordinator

Shannon Burt currently serves as the Mandy’s Farm Barn and Animal Coordinator. Shannon is a Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) Instructor who has worked with and cared for horses throughout her life.
 
Shannon has certifications through the CHA specializing in providing instruction to riders with disabilities, teaching English and Western riding skills, and in equine facility management.
 
She is currently serving as the New Mexico CHA state rep and is passionate about supporting riders of all skill levels as they connect with the horses at Mandy’s Farm