Equestrian Sidewalker (FY '26)

Sidewalker Terminology Type of Support – Likely Holds Spotter / Passive Support – sidewalker walks beside the rider without touching the horse or rider, but within arm’s reach; may primarily assist during mount and dismount; sidewalker is prepared to jump in “hands on” when indicated by instructor or compromise in rider safety – may include lower leg stabilization Active Support – sidewalker is likely to be “hands on” throughout lesson – may include lower leg stabilization, upper leg/pelvis stabilization and/or trunk/core support Full Support – sidewalker will be “hands on” for entire lesson – may include upper leg/pelvis stabilization, trunk/core support and/or upper body stabilization Amount of Support – Not physical weight of rider, level of effort for volunteers/staff to support in balanced position while riding. Light Weight – minimal assistance; individuals may have some difficulties with social communication, behaviors, or mobility resulting in minimal support/assistance Medium Weight – moderate assistance; individuals experience noticeable difficulties in social interactions/behaviors, communication or mobility, resulting in moderate support/assistance Heavy Weight – maximum/total assistance; individuals exhibit severe impairments in social interaction/behaviors, communication, or mobility, resulting in full support/assistance Height of Horse - based on which horse is assigned at the beginning of the session. May not accurately reflect last-minute changes to the schedule. Short Horse - one of our ponies; Token, Batman, LemonDrop Medium Horse - Danny Tall Horse - one of the taller horses that can carry students; Snickers, Lyla, AL Miller