E/Asel - Wilderwood

E/ASEL (Equine/Autistic Social Emotional Learning) is a program for autistic youth aged 8-18. It combines equine-assisted activities with an autistic form of social emotional learning.

A unique aspect of Wilderwood’s program is that autistic adults are active participants as mentors and role-models for children, as well as being resources for parents, grandparents, and teachers.

E/ASEL is offered in 6-week sessions from March through November. Participants attend for 90 minutes a week for a multi-modal approach based on authentic autistic and equine experiences. It features goal-setting and attainment, along with practice in collaboration, friendship, cooperation, and developing authentic autistic voice.

Features of E/ASEL include:

Individualized goal-setting;
Equine-assisted activities designed for mind/body connectivity, critical thinking, collaborative learning skills, and problem-solving;
Strengths-based curriculum aimed to improve self-esteem through positive affirmations;
Autistic mentors as role models and resources;
Instruction and activities designed to develop strategies for self-regulation, including coping with stress and anxiety and persevering through challenges;
Creative and imaginative hands-on learning activities;
Program can be repeated with new goals;
Greater self-awareness through reflection on thoughts and feelings;
Engaging and interacting with others to make connections and friendships;
Practicing social awareness and strengthening communication skill while honoring autistic preferences;
Striving to create a sense of belonging and acceptance.