Horse riding helps autistic children to relax and have fun

A new therapeutic riding school called Making Momentum has already made a big difference to many families.

School teachers Leanne Northover, 33, and wife Alexandra, 40, quit their jobs to launch the pioneering project, inspired by a Texan dad.

Leanne Northover and Jude Lees

Rupert Isaacson discovered that the condition of his autistic son Rowan improved by contact with horses.

Alexandra completed a course with Rupert in America in 2017 and now uses his techniques to tailor individual sessions to help children with additional needs.

Ella Domville with Louis

The couple run the riding school at a small holding in Over Peover, one of only two centres in the UK, specialising in the Horse Boy Method.

Leanne said: "One little boy has come on in leaps and bounds. He can speak and sees us as friends and can speak. We have developed a really close bond and he has matured.

Alexandra and Leanne Northover with Louis

"He just lights up, it is magic."

The relationship each child builds up with a horse helps them to unwind.

Ella Domville riding Cello

"The sensory stimulation from the horse, their warmth and movement engages with their nervous system," said Leanne.

"The relaxing motion of moving backwards and forwards brings stress levels down."

Oliver and Theo Marsh having fun

Alexandra, who taught science for 13 years, has carried out extensive research and completed a PhD on the benefits of animal assisted therapies.

"We both absolutely adored teaching," said Leanne, who taught for 10 years. "But, post lockdown, the mental pressure on these children was getting worse. We decided it was now or never to go for this.

"We have never looked back. It is really rewarding. The kids are amazing.

Leanne Northover, Seb Lees and Alan the tortoise

"Some of the children are non verbal but the longer we work with them, the more they learn how to communicate with us."

The couple make ceramics to help fund specialist equipment.

They have also published The Knutsford Colouring Book, featuring the town's unique character, to raise money.

As more families turn to them for help, they now need to expand.

"We are desperately trying to get some land to purchase or rent so we can expand," said Leanne.

"We have a limited budget from the sale of our house and are looking for anything in East Cheshire."

The Knutsford Colouring Book, priced £8.99, is available from Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe on King Street or etsy.com/uk/shop/Makingmomentum

For further information about the therapeutic riding school email makingmoment@outlook.com or visit Making Momentum on Facebook.