Horsemanship Program

Our Horsemanship program is designed to support youth with ADHD and learning disabilities through equine learning. This unique recreation experience blends hands-on equestrian activities with personal growth, helping campers entering grades 5-9 develop confidence, responsibility, and social skills—all while having fun with horses.

Campers will spend their days at Homeplace Ranch, working closely with trained riding instructors and Amicus Counsellors in a supportive, low-ratio environment (3:1 camper-to-staff). They will gain essential horsemanship skills, including grooming, tacking, stable management, horse etiquette, and riding. Beyond riding, campers will develop a deep understanding of horse behaviour, learn how to read non-verbal cues, build trust, and communicate effectively with their equine partners and peers.

Horses naturally encourage personal growth, making them incredible teachers of patience, teamwork, and emotional regulation. Through guided activities, campers will practice problem-solving, emotional regulation, and working cooperatively—key skills for both horsemanship and life. Our experienced staff integrate social skill development into every interaction, reinforcing lessons like understanding perspectives, expected and unexpected behaviors, self-regulation, and social problem-solving—all through engaging, horse-centered activities.

Families are responsible for their own transportation out to Homeplace Ranch in Priddis, AB (directions).

**Please be aware that with any Amicus Recreation program, we require a minimum number of registrants in order to run the program. In the event of program cancellation due to low registration, Amicus Recreation will notify families with a minimum of 1 week's notice and issue full refunds for anyone registered.

Intake Information:

If your child has not participated in an Amicus or social skills program through Foothills Academy before, you must complete an intake process prior to registration.  Full details about our Intake Criteria and Intake Process can be found here.