Equine-Assisted Learning Services

Linda Shifflett brings fully certified expertise in Horsepowered Reading and Math — a research-based program that transforms learning through the partnership of horses.

What This Looks Like

Children engage with horses in the way that works best for them — some in the saddle, some working alongside horses on the ground, and some simply in their presence. However a child connects with the horse, that connection becomes the foundation for learning. Horses make abstract concepts tangible, turning reading and math from obstacles into achievements.

Why This Matters

Families in Harrisonburg, Elkton, and the surrounding area can now come to Linda for a proven, judgment-free approach to learning. Whether building on existing skills or discovering literacy and math for the first time, each child moves at their own pace — gaining not just academic ability, but genuine, lasting confidence.

Linda's certification makes this life-changing program available right here in our community.

Faith, Hope & Horses is a relationship-focused facility where adults and children can explore the world of horses at their own pace — whether that means learning to ride or simply being in their presence in a structured, supportive environment.

We offer both mounted and unmounted activities and lessons, centered on the horse journey itself.

Equine-Assisted Learning

Our programs support personal growth and well-being through meaningful horse-human connection. From structured ground work to Horsepowered Reading, each experience is tailored to the individual goals and needs of the participant.

WE SERVE A VARIETY OF CLIENTS WITH:

• Motivation to learn horseback riding from the ground up

• Wish to connect with themselves through horses

• Desire for overall wellbeing enhancement

• Interest in gentle exercise in nature

• Need for calming, mindful outdoor experiences

• Interest in therapeutic animal connection

• Developmental delays or cognitive disorders

• Sensory processing issues

• Autism, ADHD/ADD

• Anxiety or PTSD

• Communication needs

• Behavioral or impulse control issues

• Emotional management issues

A Note on Our Services

Our equine-assisted learning programs are educational in nature and do not constitute licensed therapy or medical treatment. We work collaboratively with each participant to explore personal insights and develop life skills — while respecting the important distinction between our offerings and the services of licensed mental health professionals.

Schedule your COMPLIMENTARY Meet & Greet with our horses! During your Meet & Greet, you will complete required assessment paperwork and a goal consultation. After an assessment review and consultation, qualifying participants will then be scheduled for their personalized sessions, which may include therapeutic horseback riding activities. 

Additionally, our Horsepowered Reading program offers mounted and non-mounted activities that enhance learning experiences. 

WE OFFER

- Mounted & non-mounted activities

- Daily, weekly, & monthly lessons for children & adults

- Educational enrichment opportunities for individuals & groups

- Co-Op field trips

- Birthday Parties (see below)

We proudly offer birthday celebrations for riders of all ages at our peaceful ranch, where the joy of horses meets fun! Each 2-hour gathering welcomes 10 children for a memorable day with our gentle horses, allowing them to experience the magic of interactive horsemanship.

Trailblazer Package | $275.00

Saddle up for guided horseback rides, an engaging horse behavior lesson, lovingly captured photos sent straight to your inbox, and homemade decorated cupcakes that'll have everyone asking for seconds.

Wrangler Package | $335.00

Everything in our Trailblazer package plus a handcrafted keepsake for each young rider to take home and all the plates, napkins, and fixings for a proper celebration.

Cupcake Choices:

Farm-fresh flavors include Yellow, Chocolate, Birthday Confetti, Strawberry, and Lemon—all topped with smooth buttercream frosting made the old-fashioned way.

Each package includes refreshing bottled water.

All participants (parent/legal guardian) must sign our standard liability and assumption of risk agreement before joining the fun.