Disabled children receive equestrian therapy in Wenjiang

( chinadaily.com.cn )

Updated: 2015-09-18

More than 20 children with Down's syndrome, infantile autism and cerebral palsy were treated to a special “horse-riding” experience in the Wenjiang Jinma Equestrianism Park in Wenjiang district on Sept 15.

Those children rode on horseback with the help of therapists to build up their confidence and boost their hand-eye coordination and body balance.

The equestrian therapy was part of the activities at the 9th National Games for Persons with Disabilities & the 6th Special Olympics National Games of the People's Republic of China, which is currently under way in Chengdu, Sichuan province.

Some 30 children, aged between 6and 13, with disabilities will also be selected and receive a systematic equestrian therapy for free in the following months.

Equestrian therapy is employed in treatment of people with limb or mental disabilities for decades. “The effects for children are particularly good,” said Wang Yanting, a professional equestrian therapist.

A child receives equestrian therapy under the guidance of professional therapists in the Wenjiang Jinma Equestrian Park in Wenjiang district, Chengdu, Sichuan province, on Sept 15. [Photo/Chengdu Daily]

A Sweden therapist helps a child develop hand-eye coordination on horseback. [Photo/Chengdu Daily]

By Shi Zihan and edited by Mevlut Katik