A new pilot project may eventually put Puslinch on the international stage when it comes to the impact of therapy on autism.
Ann Caine, executive director of Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre, was at Puslinch council recently to explain a pilot project in conjunction with McMaster University.
Since 1982, Sunrise has provided a program of therapy, recreation, sport and life skills training for children and adults with special needs. The program focuses on individual ability by providing an environment of challenge, enjoyment and achievement.
The centre is located on a 103-acre farm in Puslinch.
In addition to therapeutic riding lessons taught by Canadian certified instructors, Sunrise offers integrated programs open to children with and without special needs.
“This year is a very special year for us,” Caine said. “We’ve been serving the community for 30 years. It is a signature year and we seem to be having a lot of parties. It is not just one date.”
She cited the centre’s June culinary fundraiser.
“This year we are calling it Galloping Gourmets as we feel the name fits in well with what we do,” she said.
Caine anticipates an actual birthday party in July with a barn dance and a big barbecue for children and adults and for past and present program participants. In September there will be the annual Hoofbeat Challenge.
“We have so many great stories to tell about the children and the effect of our therapy on them,” said Caine.
The same holds true for other such facilities across Canada, she said.
Caine said one thing not really done in Canada is research.
“Anecdotal stories are lovely, but we need to get some research out there, especially internationally,” she said.
The centre is now working with the occupational therapy department at McMaster on a pilot project with three to four children on the autism spectrum, said Caine.
“We hope to do a full project in another year.” As a result, she is looking for funding.
Caine noted the Sunrise’s consultant occupational therapist, who is also a pediatric therapist, was instrumental in spearheading the project.
Every three years there is an international conference for therapeutic riding. “So in 2015, we are hoping that not just Canada, but Puslinch is going to be in there, letting the world know what we’ve been doing. It’s pretty exciting.”
She said Sunrise has a waiting list as it cannot keep up with demand for its services.
“We have many, many children coming in for early intervention,” Caine said.
She noted the autism pilot project is interesting because since its started she has already seen some results and, “We’re really happy about that.”
She added the centre trains people from around the world. Currently, there interns from Switzerland, France, North Bay and another coming from Newfoundland.
“We’re really excited about that, and really excited we can help other communities start what we have here,” said Caine.
Councillor Susan Fielding said it was impressive to have a program such as Sunrise within the community.
“Every time you speak, I feel so enthusiastic and grateful for what you do for so many children and their families. I’m really proud to have you as part of our community,” she said.
Fielding added the research project sounds wonderful. “I applaud you for taking the initiative. What you’ve seen anecdotally, I’m sure you will find out scientifically.”
Councillor Wayne Stokely lives near the centre and said his grandchildren take part in the summer camps. “They really enjoy it. It’s great to see this type of program in Puslinch and I commend you for it.”
Councillor Ken Roth asked about the waiting list. Caine said even though the program runs daily, there is still a waiting list. “We do try to get people in as quickly as possible.”
She said a similar centre in London has a two-year waiting list, but that facility has fewer horses and less space.
“It’s shame we do have a waiting list, because we know if we can get them in early, we can do so much more with them.”
She added some parents have told her, “I just wish I knew about this program earlier.”
The program accepts children as young as age 3. All children taking part are medically supervised and there are consultations to determine what types of lessons are required.
Mayor Dennis Lever asked for additional information on the research project.
Caine said typically programs are over a six week period, but McMaster has pushed for eight.
She said the centre has already applied for funding for a “full-blown” project that would involve many more children.
