Stirrups and Smiles: Empowering children and students through hippotherapy

by Dr. Jennifer Fisher 

In 2014, I joined the board of directors for Stirrups and Smiles, a nonprofit providing hippotherapy services to children in local communities. Motivated by the potential to offer students a unique learning experience while also serving children in need, I pursued specialized training in hippotherapy in 2017, which allowed me to begin providing on-site therapy. I’m now serving as president of Stirrups and Smiles, and it is profoundly rewarding to see the positive impact hippotherapy has on each child’s growth and on the students who gain invaluable hands-on experience.

“Hippotherapy” comes from the Greek word for horse, “hippos.” Although the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding have been recognized as far back as ancient times, the formal practice of integrating horseback movement into therapy settings truly gained momentum in the mid-20th century. Horses provide a dynamic, rhythmic gait that can improve the rider’s balance, core strength and coordination. At the same time, the naturalistic environment of the barn and riding arena helps children feel more relaxed and engaged than they might in a traditional clinical setting.

This real-world context sets the stage for authentic, functional interactions. Children often feel confident when working with a large, gentle animal. In addition, the therapy team — ranging from speech-language pathologists to physical and occupational therapists — supports the rider alongside side walkers and horse handlers, giving the child multiple communication partners during each session. These factors not only increase motivation and focus but also naturally encourage turn taking, social reciprocity and spontaneous communication.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role as an associate professor of communication sciences and disorders is bringing our graduate students to Stirrups and Smiles. Here, they gain hands-on clinical experience with children in a unique environment, further enhancing their foundational knowledge. While some students participate directly in therapy sessions, earning required clinical hours, others fulfill observation requirements for their courses. It’s gratifying to see them connect with clients, work as part of an interdisciplinary team and appreciate how this naturalistic setting can foster progress in ways a traditional clinic sometimes cannot.

Stirrups and Smiles thrives on the dedication of volunteers. Students and community members can help as side walkers, assist with barn chores and horse care, and even pitch in with fundraising events. Over the past few years Harding students have logged hundreds of volunteer hours, all while building valuable skills and forging lasting bonds. This exposure to interdisciplinary collaboration among speech-language pathologists, physical therapists and occupational therapists strengthens their ability to work as part of a broader health care team.

Because of its nonprofit status, Stirrups and Smiles relies on financial sponsors, volunteers and other donations to keep this life-changing program accessible for children in need. Whether through monetary gifts, supplies or time, generous investors continue providing high-quality therapy to families throughout our community.

By combining equine movement with evidence-based interventions, Stirrups and Smiles truly opens doors for children who need an extra boost — physically, emotionally and communicatively. I feel incredibly privileged to witness these transformations day after day and look forward to sharing these opportunities with Harding students for many years to come.