Max’s mother, Desiree, says “Max loves being outside and has so much fun at The Shea Center! He is learning how to connect with animals.”

Seven-year-old Max loves riding “Bliss”. The first day, he was apprehensive and clung to his mother. Now, he loves to feed and groom the horses and doesn’t really mind the barn sounds. Riding in the quiet setting of The Shea Center seems to calm him.

Diagnosed with progressive developmental disorder, which is similar to autism, Max has some issues with socialization, sensory processing, and communication skills. At the Center, Max works on his expressive conversation skills with speech pathologist Terri Hutchison.

Desiree continues, “During the last two years, Max’s sensory processing issues have diminished and his coordination and balance have improved. Now he can sit up straight and self-correct his body placement and posture on the horse. Max is also learning that he must complete an action before receiving a reward.”

In addition to riding at The Shea Center, Max participates in jujitsu, swimming, and he learned how to boogie board last summer!