“Finding a safe place for a child to explore and grow in resilience, courage and perseverance isn’t easy. As a parent, I want my child to go into adolescence already knowing how to use her voice with confidence and courage, and to be a problem -solving team player. These are the things she learns at Horse Connect.

I’ve seen her use words and body language to communicate as a leader and a team player. I’ve seen her overcome frustrations and persevere. I’ve watched her taste the victory of accomplishment. Her horse “teacher” doesn’t judge her. She’s willing to be led, and this has helped my daughter to learn courage and trustworthiness. I’ve been amazed with every single session—always thinking of how my daughter will take these skills into adolescence and beyond.

As a facilitator, Mary Jean is encouraging and positive. She has a great way of showing she believes in my daughter’s ability to make choices and solve problems. My daughter responds by digging deep into reserves of resilience she didn’t know she possessed. I’m learning new things about my daughter with each Horse Connect session. Mary Jean draws parallels between the world of horses and the human world, such as situations with school and friendships.

We leave each session with a smile and a “full bucket.” I 100% recommend Horse Connect with Mary Jean—it has something great to offer to people of all ages. It’s a wonderful program, run by a warm and gifted facilitator. You won’t regret it!”

— Becky Sarafinchen

Just wanted to take a minute to tell you how amazing Horse Connect was. Bodhi enjoyed it so much and didn't want it to be over. Mary-Jean and Jack were such lovely people and offer a really wonderful program. Hope to see it on the activity schedule again 

Thank you for the opportunity!

- Samara

Rylan is usually very reserved in situations like this but was very happy that he was engaged in learning and felt free to discuss and answer questions that MJ asked.

- Rylan’s mom

“Thank you so much for taking Madalyn on for the BeYou@theBarn course.  She had a really great time and talked about all of the things she learned along the way!"

— Madalyn’s mom