NEW from NARHA

Interactive Vaulting Certification Program
NARHA members now have the opportunity to become certified in the specialty area of Interactive Vaulting (beginning in February 2008). 

NARHA and the interactive vaulting certification subcommittee have designed an extensive certification program that includes a three-day interactive vaulting workshop plus a two-day Interactive vaulting certification. 

The application booklets for NARHA events/programs are available for download by clicking on the link for the event or by emailing Tara McChesney or Meghan Tawney

What is interactive vaulting?

Interactive Vaulting is an activity in which the students perform movements on and around the horse. These movements can be very simple such as sitting without holding onto the surcingle or a more elaborate compulsory move such as kneeling or standing on the horse. It all depends on the individual needs of the vaulter.

How can centers and participants benefit?

Interactive vaulting is a group activity for individuals who are ambulatory and cognitively capable of following directions. This describes a large group of students that come to NARHA centers. Individuals with learning disabilities, ADHD, or social weaknesses, are just some of the individuals who could potentially benefit from participation in interactive vaulting.  Interactive vaulting is an activity that provides an energetic atmosphere, develops the students’ awareness of the horse and themselves.

Benefits for participants of Interactive Vaulting:

√  fosters teamwork

√  teaches respect for the horse

√  fosters independence

√  builds confidence

√ encourages social interaction

√  offers individualized instruction while mounted

√  introduces all gaits in a short period of time

Benefits for centers that provide this equine assisted activity:

√  serves more participants with one horse

√  requires few or no volunteers

√  provides another program opportunity for participants

√  reduces burnout of participants, instructors and horses