Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy
Parents Talk
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Every child needs a weekend activity, a passion, a hobby and source of pride that makes them feel special. SMART fills these needs for our children. Jacob was lost on Saturdays and demanded that we produce structured activities. Jacob has austism. Having a weekly schedule is important to him. Jacob is no longer lost on Saturdays. He looks forward to his lesson. Jacob is at his best behavior and
attention during his lessons. He normally does not follow verbal instructions very well. SUPPORT SMART! The special folks of Manatee County need SMART. Darrin Diem Palmetto |
| SMART is a great program that brings together physical, occupational and speech therapy while allowing riders ample opportunity to experience friendship, responsibility, hard work, and most importantly, lots of FUN. Ella looks forward to her riding lesson every week. Stacy Quaid Bradenton |
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Since my daughter, Kaitlyn, has participated in the SMART program I have seen marked improvements in her behavior, attitude, balance, coordination, and her attention span. She loves being at the farm. SMART has become a part of our family and we enjoy the time we spend with them. Saturday has become our “SMART’ day not just our lesson hour. It gives her a safe environment to commune with nature, the SMART horses, and the volunteers who make her feel proud of her accomplishments and herself. I cannot put into a few words what SMART means and the impact they have had on our lives. Carolyn Bartlett-Richman Bradenton |
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A lot of attention is given to children with disabilities. What we find so wonderful about SMART is that as a young adult (24), our daughter Nicki is equally as welcome and given the chance to be all she can be. Nicki very much looks forward to riding, learning and interacting with the horses and the terrific staff members and volunteers. Joan Hazelett |
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When my daughter, Mallory, started at SMART she was bent over in her wheelchair with poor eye contact, soft spoken and her “canned” answer was “I don’t care.” Now, she sits up straight, speaks louder instead of mumbling, looks people in the face. All I can say is, you should see her now. It’s magic! Deborah Greenleaf Sarasota |