Twins, Charlie and Nicky P. (age 7) participate in occupational therapy utilizing hippotherapy at The Shea Center.  The boys were diagnosed with autism just before their third birthday.

The family recently moved to Orange County from Redding, CA.  They miss the rural area, but willingly relocated to take advantage of the quality of education and therapies available in Southern California.

Nicky is nonverbal and uses an AAC assistive technology device and sign language to enhance his communication.  Even though he doesn’t speak, he is a problem solver and listens, understands, and follows directions.  Charlie is verbal, and although not conversational, he is able to express his needs and wants.

Charles working with Occupational Therapist Karen Yamasaki

The twins are in autism specific second grade classes and love school.  They receive several therapies at school, but their weekly ride at The Shea Center is their favorite.  The boys have learned to read the calendar by determining how many more days or sleeps until they return to the Center for their next treatment.

Charlie and Nicky’s mother, Nette remarks, “Since beginning riding, the boys are calmer and many of their negative behaviors have disappeared.  They have more self-control, are more focused, and now follow directions and multiple step directions.  In their spare time, Charlie and Nicky have fun body boarding, riding bikes, jumping on their trampoline, and participating all sorts of other outside activities.

In closing, Nette commented, “This whole thing is a journey that we take one day at a time, but being able to come to The Shea Center is a blessing.”

Nicky working with Occupational Therapist Missy Braun and horse Auggie