What is Horse Powered Reading?
Horse Powered Reading® (HPR) is a science-based experiential learning program focused on the student's natural curiosity and determination to help gain confidence, motivation, and overcome reading challenges.
What skills does Horse Powered Reading focus on?
The program focuses on the following skills:
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Decoding - building phonics skills and sight word recognition
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Vocabulary enhancement
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Fluency development - reading quickly, accurately and with expression
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Overcome barriers blocking comprehension
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Practice study skills
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Comprehend textbooks
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Learn new, unfamiliar, and multi-syllable words
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Achieve higher-order thinking
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Use critical and creative thinking
By integrating equine-assisted learning, social-emotional learning, and academics, Horse Powered Reading® helps students of all ages build self-efficacy and excitement for learning. During sessions, students can make discoveries through activities using props to aid learning. Students and their reading partner (horse), interact providing the facilitator insight into what they are experiencing inside and what patterns are working or not working for them. That interplay allows for profound learning to take place. Through this process, the horse creates an opportunity for immediate feedback and experiential learning to take place.
What types of programs are offered?
Certified HPR Facilitators provide learners a safe and fun environment, utilizing the wonders of the farm, nature, and connection with horses and other farm animals.
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Individual and Small Group Sessions geared for youth ages 4-17. Personalized sessions are formed around individual needs to support classroom learning.
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Summer Day Camps and Special Events using literacy and math skills while enjoying horseplay seems more like fun than learning! These camps and events are offered throughout the summer months.
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Field trips and Community visits: We invite the community to experience the power of Horse Powered Reading with our equine friends.
Meet the Equines of Horse Powered Reading
Meet the Educator
Cesyli Gaut, Founder and President of Stardust Sanctuary, is an Orton-Gillingham reading specialist and the facilitator for Horse Powered Reading. She holds a Master of Education with a focus on best practices for accelerating student growth. With over 20 years of experience working with children from infancy through adolescence, she has dedicated her career to reimagining education. After teaching in public schools and recognizing systemic challenges, Cesyli set out to create a new educational model for her own children—one that prioritizes individualized learning and holistic development. She is passionate about building strong community partnerships, advocating for animal welfare, and developing impactful programs that inspire growth and connection.
1 hr 30 min
125 US dollars
1 hr
75 US dollars
1 hr
60 US dollars