Therapeutic horseback riding has also been shown to improve the behavioral patterns of a child with autism. Smith says some behavioral patterns are inability to relate to others, sensory processing deficits, cognitive deficits, self-stimulation, resistance to change, and challenging behaviors (Smith…). Scott considers multitasking to be one of the skills improved with driving. “Multitasking – Simultaneously, a rider holds the reins in the correct position; squeezes with his legs; stands up straight; listens and follows the instructor's instructions; and watches the horse before him lest his mount come near” (13 Scott). This multitasking skill can be transferred to the classroom because a child must be able to perform several actions at once. For example, listen to the teacher while following instructions or taking notes, and without being distracted by other students. Sequencing is another skill that Scott says improves through therapeutic riding. “A single task (stopping a horse) for a person with reduced abilities may be a series of steps, each done one at a time. Learning to put the steps together in the right order, which often does not come naturally, can be useful in everyday life” (13 Cognitive Scott). Following sequential steps is crucial for a child to perform in class because a teacher will give a series of instructions and they will need to be able to follow them. A teacher may tell you to hang up your coats, sit at your desk, and take out your writing assignment to work. A child must be able to follow these instructions so that they can learn when they need to. If the teacher has to take the time to redirect or remind the child of the series of instructions, it takes away from learning a subject. Another sk...... middle of paper ......positive effects on self-esteem. Therapeutic horse riding should be offered to more children with autism because it not only increases their self-esteem, but it also improves skills that are important for their success in the classroom. Works CitedTherapeutic Horseback Riding: Its Benefits, Trades and Divisions Barbara EngelScott, Naomi …Special Needs, Special Horses: A Guide to the Benefits of Therapeutic Horseback Riding -listWard, Sandra…The association between therapeutic horseback riding and social communication and sensory reactions of autistic childrenGabriels, Robin…. Pilot Study Measuring the Effects of Therapeutic Horseback Riding on School-Aged Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum DisordersTherapeutic Horseback Riding and Behavior Change in Children with Autism…Tolson, SharonTeaching Students with Special Needs in Inclusive Settings… Smith