To get on his horse, Onyx, Robb ascends a ramp, so all he has to do is sit down. Then, with the help of three volunteers, Robb rides around the facility and performs various activities. He practices balance through having to reach for different objects while on the horse, and he is also learning how to guide the horse on his own! So far, Robb seems to most enjoy the ride rather than the skill-building activities, and he was not amused when the horse started trotting as he bounced up and down. However, he always gets a smile on his face after accomplishing every task presented to him.
Obviously, there are always obstacles. Last week Robb did not want to get onto the horse for no apparent reason even though he was smiling and laughing the entire way to the barn, but when he got the alternative option of grooming the horse, he was pleased with this activity. Sometimes I think Robb just likes knowing his options and maintaining a power dynamic that places him at the top (I mean, who doesn't want that?), and it is great to know that there activities where he can make these choices for himself.
As adulthood fast approaches, the amount of activities seems to dwindle, but this program helps to remind our family that there will always be options for Robb to live an enriching life, and although maybe not verbally communicating his opinion, he will always have choice in what he chooses to participate to create the life he wants for himself.
