A photo of a Falconer school field trip group photo to Centaur Stride

At Centaur Stride, field trips are an extension of learning, and a doorway to confidence, regulation and growth.

School introduces students to a range of subjects, experiences, and environments, allowing them to discover what truly engages and motivates them. This is the foundation of a well-rounded education.

One teacher may be responsible for several students with differing abilities, behaviors, learning styles, and rates of progress. Layer in government cutbacks to school funding, and the result is stressed educators, decreased attendance, and outcomes that fall far short of what students are capable of learning.

Over the course of 23 years working as a physical therapist in multiple school districts, I witnessed these challenges firsthand. Centaur Stride was created in part to address the gaps I saw in services for children with disabilities:

— Insufficient OT/PT services to maximize physical and functional ability.

— Limited movement opportunities for children who use wheelchairs.

— A lack of effective integration and inclusion.

These were not the fault of the schools, nor the sole responsibility of the schools. These were conditions related to various disabilities. Movement is necessary for developing the brain in preparation for effective learning. There were and still are very limited activities that are accommodating for people with disabilities, especially those in wheelchairs, especially for promoting movement.

At Centaur Stride, programs are designed to harness the healing power of horses and nature, which activate the parasympathetic nervous system — responsible for calm, regulation, and focus — while dampening the fight, flight, or freeze response.

When students feel safe and regulated, the brain is better able to absorb information, engage socially, and benefit from both educational and hands-on learning. This extends to all learning styles, because of the natural multi-sensory integration inherent in these experiences.

Most special education teachers are passionate advocates for their students. However, not all environments are appropriate or safe for all individuals.

That reality reinforces part of the reason why Centaur Stride exists.

Centaur Stride was built to safely accommodate individuals with disabilities, including students with autism and those who may elope (runners).” Our barn doors can be closed, allowing children freedom of movement while maintaining safety and limiting distance. Students can be observed without the need for constant physical pursuit, reducing anxiety for both the child and aide. Once on the horse they can’t get off without help. Sidewalkers are placed on both sides if there is even a possibility that they may try to jump off. (Some children have very poor judgment skills, but usually they are focused on the horse and not about getting off or running). Judgment skills are a goal in therapy.

Children need opportunities to learn how to behave in public spaces, and Centaur Stride offers a safe and supportive place to begin or practice that process. We have clear expectations and rules, but also meaningful choices. Students may choose to follow the rules and ride and interact with a horse, choose a different activity, or simply observe until they feel ready.

Engagement begins gently — feeding a horse a treat, brushing its coat, or even helping prepare a treat. Sometimes our cats make the first connection. Watching other classmates ride can inspire courage. A first ride might be very short, but the knowledge that they can stop at any time gives students the confidence to try again. In most cases, progress happens quickly–sometimes within a single session, sometimes over several short rides–but almost always, it builds.

Advertising field trips is about making teachers, parents, and administrators aware that inclusive, therapeutic field trip options exist.

Too often, opportunities are limited simply because decision-makers don’t know what is available or expect it to be too costly. Programs are structured to be engaging, flexible, and respectful of each child’s pace. Students are offered choice, aides receive support, and although the setting may be new, the horses provide a calming, grounding presence. Our therapy horses are specifically trained, gentle, and prepared for a wide range of situations.

Centaur Stride is now scheduling field trips for the Spring season beginning in April. We are approved for Co-Ser reimbursement under the BOCES cooperative for individual schools. We offer experiences tailored to your students’ physical, emotional, and educational needs. We can even help you fill out the paperwork for Co-Ser Reimbursement. If funding is already used up for the remainder of this school year, apply now to reserve dates for summer and the 2026-27 school year.

Parents can also schedule individual or group lessons. We do require a parent to stay with their child if not a school or organization field trip. We also have after-school horse clubs starting in March.

Our next volunteer orientation is Saturday, Feb 14 from noon to 2 p.m. at the barn at 8488 Jones Road, Sherman. We continue to need volunteers to help us with all phases of our programs and horse care needs, even for scheduled events such as field trips during the day. Volunteers must be at least 13 years old and be able to work independently and safely. We have special volunteer training for people with disabilities who cannot work independently. Please call the barn to register at 716 326-4318.

Our next fundraiser is food take out at Wanderlust in Westfield on March 4. Watch for more info and follow us on Facebook. Thank you for your support.