Contributed by Sharon Dillard of Let’s Saddle up-Tiny Trotters
Our Tiny Trotters partnered with Simpsonville Police on Sunday to host a “Just Say Whoa to Bullying” program at Heritage Park. We had a great time with Officer Stouffer, Tater Tot and Snicker Doodle and explained how we can “Just Say Whoa to Bullying”. (“Just Say Whoa to Bullying” program is the first of its kind to teach bullying prevention using miniature therapy horses.) Thank you to the Simpsonville Police Department, the City of Simpsonville, SC, Tiny Trotters Handlers, and Photographer, Courtney Riddle.
The Just Say Whoa® to Bullying program takes a unique approach to teaching bullying prevention by helping children to recognize and respect the differences in one another. By understanding that everyone has something valuable to offer, children learn acceptance, tolerance, respect, and understanding of others.
In addition, this innovative program is the first of its kind to teach bullying prevention using animal-assisted activities with miniature therapy horses. While often used to help teach children with learning disabilities, truancy, and behavioral issues, animal-assisted activities can also be used with mainstream children to capture their attention, teach to the moment, and reinforce what they learn.
By instilling these core values and encouraging good character, Just Say Whoa® to Bullying builds a foundation of understanding and promotes a positive social environment, which in turn, fosters kindness and good citizenship.■
