What is Horse Powered Reading®?

What is Horse Powered Reading®?

At Major’s Place, we believe that learning should feel meaningful, engaging, and even a little bit magical. That’s exactly what Horse Powered Reading® offers—a unique, evidence-based approach to literacy that brings children and horses together in a powerful learning environment.

Horse Powered Reading® (HPR) is an equine-assisted learning program that helps children build essential literacy skills through hands-on, experiential activities with horses. Designed for students of all reading levels, the program combines traditional reading concepts with movement, problem-solving, and emotional connection—making learning both effective and memorable.

Learning That Comes to Life

In a Horse Powered Reading® session, children don’t just sit and read—they actively engage in activities that bring literacy concepts to life. Working alongside a trained facilitator and gentle, intuitive horses, students participate in exercises that reinforce skills like:

• Letter recognition

• Phonics and decoding

• Vocabulary development

• Reading comprehension

• Sequencing and storytelling

For example, a child might guide a horse through an obstacle course that represents the sequence of a story, or match letters and sounds while working in the arena. These activities create a physical and emotional connection to learning that helps concepts “stick” in a way that traditional methods sometimes cannot.

Why Horses?

Horses are incredibly perceptive animals. They respond to body language, energy, and intention—offering immediate, honest feedback. This creates a powerful opportunity for children to build confidence, focus, and emotional awareness while they learn.

For many students—especially those who struggle in conventional classroom settings—working with horses can reduce anxiety and increase motivation. The experience feels less like “schoolwork” and more like a meaningful interaction, which opens the door to deeper engagement and growth.

More Than Reading Skills

While literacy is the primary focus, Horse Powered Reading® supports the whole child. Through each session, students also develop:

• Confidence and self-esteem

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving abilities

• Emotional regulation

• A sense of accomplishment

These are skills that extend far beyond reading—and can positively impact a child’s experience at school, at home, and in their community.

Our Approach at Major’s Place

At Major’s Place, Horse Powered Reading® is delivered by a certified facilitator in partnership with our equine team in a safe, supportive environment. We work with families, schools, and community partners across Siskiyou County to ensure that children have access to this innovative program—regardless of their background or learning style.

Our goal is simple: to help children discover that they are capable, confident learners—and that reading can be something they enjoy.

If you’re interested in learning more about Horse Powered Reading® or enrolling your child in a session, we’d love to connect with you.