At the Therapeutic Horsemanship Ranch of El Paso, children and adults with physical and mental disabilities learn how to better cope with their conditions by riding horses.

Julie Pearson, of the ranch, said the movement of the horse helps the physically challenged improve balance coordination and development. For the mentally challenged, the horses help with concentration and self-control.

"Once the kids know they can control the horse, they can control themselves," Pearson said.

Aman Verma is only 3-years-old but has been riding the therapy horses for about four months. His mother, Becky Verma said Aman suffers from a form of autism.

"He has sensor issues. In situations where you or I might be a little uncomfortable but be able to regulate ourselves and cope with a situation, he cannot," Verma explained.

She said since Aman started attending the ranch, she has already noticed improvements.

"I have seen him being able to regulate himself," Verma said, adding that she has also noticed that her son has improved concentration.

Instructors said even what may look like a simple kids' game may be difficult for autistic children.

For example, children can learn about sequencing by walking the horse between poles, picking up a colored ring, then placing the ring on the pole.

Some of the children also have speech problems, but after being at the ranch for a while, those also improve.

There are 11 therapy horses at the ranch, and each provides a very special service and relationship with each of the kids.

Pearson said oftentimes the horse will be used as a motivator.

"Their first words are usually the name of the horse, but the parents say, 'We will take it,'" she said.

Verma said her son is very comfortable at the ranch.

"He knows by the direction we are driving the car that he is headed (there), and he calls out his horse by name and is anxious to get here and get on the horse," Verma said.

The ranch, located in Vinton at 651 North Vinton Road, will host the Special Olympics equestrian competitions on May 6.

Donations to help with the program are welcome, and the funds help with everything from boarding the horses to assist parents who can't afford to send their children.

For more information, please call the ranch at 886-4888.