At Save Ukraine’s Hope & Healing Center, hippotherapy is not a pastime—it’s a clinical modality we integrate into trauma-informed rehabilitation for war-affected children. Guided equine movement provides rhythmic, three-dimensional input that mirrors pelvic motion in human gait, engages the vestibular and proprioceptive systems, and supports co-regulation (child–therapist–horse). For children living with trauma, developmental delays, or disabilities, this combination can unlock gains traditional settings struggle to achieve.

Who we serve & how the program works

• Eligibility: participation in Early Intervention program is based on medical indications and professional recommendations.
• Design: a 3-month course, ≥10 sessions per child, delivered in small groups (up to 8) by licensed rehabilitation specialists in a safeguarded environment.
• Access: all sessions are free of charge for our beneficiaries.

What our clinicians and caregivers observe

• Motor domain: improved balance, coordination, and trunk stability; stronger postural control and fine/gross motor planning.
• Emotional regulation: reduced anxiety and hyperarousal, better stress tolerance, visible growth in confidence and initiative.
• Social functioning: measurable progress in turn-taking, communication, responsibility, and routine adherence.
• Daily living: more restorative sleep and improved appetite, which compound therapeutic gains.

We embed hippotherapy within individualized care plans, track progress through pre/post functional assessments, and align our practice with trauma-informed, family-centered standards.

With gratitude: this program is possible thanks to the support of the Embassy of the Netherlands. Your partnership helps children rebuild regulation, skills, and trust—one carefully guided step at a time.