Making Chatter Buddies at the Barn
A very special visit this summer
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Therapy Strides’ pilot camp was honored to be featured in The Ohio Speech and Hearing Professionals Board’s summer newsletter
“I could not help but to be moved as I witnessed the remarkable interaction between the children and their speech-language pathologists during their story time...I had an amazing time at camp. It was such an honor and a pleasure to see our profession in action and making a positive impact on children and families.”
SLP Testimonials
As a speech therapist, it was truly amazing to witness the transformation that took place during our week at camp. Many of the students began with no prior experience interacting with horses, yet by the end of the week, they had formed meaningful connections with them. They talked to the horses while washing, feeding, and petting them-using these moments not only to bond but to also practice their communication skills. Remarkably, some students even used the shape and movement of the horses' bodies to visualize how to form specific speech sounds with their mouths. Watching students grow more comfortable each day, both in their interactions with the horses and in their communication, was incredibly rewarding.
Christina Mniemne, M.A./CCC SLP-L
Grad Student Testimonials
During my afternoon at horse camp, I had the privilege of supporting students as they experienced the unique integration of barn life and speech therapy. The combination of interacting with horses and participating in structured language activities created a natural, motivating environment for communication. Students practiced both articulation and pragmatic language while engaging with the horses and forming meaningful connections with their peers. I was especially impressed by how seamlessly speech goals were woven into fun, hands-on activities, fostering authentic communication and learning. This camp provided a safe, supportive space where children could strengthen their communication skills, build confidence, and experience the power of positive interactions with both peers and animals. It is truly a one-of-a-kind program, and I feel fortunate to have been a part of it.
-Lydia Booth
The Ohio State University | Department of Speech and Hearing Science, Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology | Class of 2026
Being part of the kids’ journeys at horse camp was incredibly rewarding. I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to watch them grow in their speech and language skills, as well as their confidence. I cant wait to see the impact horse camp will have on another summer of campers.
-Ireland Worthington
The Ohio State University | Department of Speech and Hearing Science, Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology | Class of 2026
Parent testimonials
“Wow! What a fantastic program! I am so happy I discovered Therapy Strides. My son was so joyful and eager to go to camp. He practiced his speech therapy goals, but it didn't feel like work because he was doing it while learning about horses and interacting with them. I also believe that this week helped with his confidence, anxiety, flexibility, and receiving feedback in a non-threatening environment. I would definitely recommend Therapy Strides to others and hope to see more programs in the future!”
- Valerie
“This is the second year my son has participated in this camp, and he has talked about it weekly all year. It is the most motivated and excited I've ever seen him get about speech therapy. Definitely a core memory and one-of-a-kind experience!”
- Sarah
“My son never shares what he does at school but, after his 1st day of camp, he enthusiastically told me what he did with the horses, the treats, scavenger hunts, games, etc.!”
-Leah
"For the first time, My daughter was able to express her emotions using a complete sentence as well as explain why she was mad. She was also able to tell her fellow campers that she preferred to be called by her nickname. These are BIG accomplishments!”
-Arlene