How Equine Science Is Growing Little Hearts and Big Minds

If you had told me a year ago that I’d be in the classroom but bringing my love for horses with me, I might have raised an eyebrow. After serving as the Equine Specialist here at Cookson Hills, I stepped into a new role as the Kindergarten and First Grade teacher in January of 2024. But my heart for the barn never left. So when Gage, who now leads our Equine program, shared an idea to start an Equine Science class for our youngest students, I was all in. This pilot class is just the beginning of something we hope will grow—a way to bring hands-on, horse-powered learning into everyday instruction.

Learning in the Barnyard Classroom

So, what does Equine Science actually look like? Well, imagine tiny boots stomping through the barn, curious eyes observing every detail, and hearts wide open to the wonder of God’s creation. It’s school—but not in the way most of us grew up with. We’re not just petting horses (though that part is pretty great). We’re using the barn and the horses to meet real Oklahoma Science and Literacy Standards.

Take spring, for instance. We noticed the horses were shedding—losing those thick winter coats. Why? Because the days are getting longer and warmer. That led us into a whole discussion about the seasons, changes in nature, and even what the horses eat now that the grass is green again. Before we knew it, we had covered standards about patterns in nature, sunlight, and animal needs—just by being curious together.

We’ve also observed Baby Ruth and her mama, Annie, watching how Annie cares for her little one and how they’re alike—but not quite the same. That simple moment at the barn gave us the perfect lens to talk about family traits, survival behaviors, and how God designed parents to nurture their young.

More Than Science

And it’s not just science we’re learning. Every time we gather, we begin with a safety discussion and learn to respect the horse and each other. The students dive into grooming, leading, and riding their horses, each step helping them develop new skills and grow in confidence. They even give their horse a treat at the end, saying “thank you” for a job well done. 

Through these simple, hands-on experiences, they’re practicing important speaking and listening skills, building friendships, learning to take responsibility, and getting plenty of exercise—all while meeting Oklahoma’s science standards. It’s incredible to see how much they’re growing, not just academically, but as young individuals, too.

When Confidence Grows

One moment I’ll never forget is watching a Kindergartener take her first ride. She was terrified—gripping the saddle, unsure, and on the edge of tears. But she did it. By the end of the ride, her face lit up with joy. That confidence didn’t stay in the barn either. Later, when she was struggling with an assignment and ready to give up, I reminded her of the horse. “Remember how scared you were? But Jesus was with you. We were all there to help. And you did it.” She smiled, dried her tears, and finished her work. That’s the power of these moments.

barn classroom

A Classroom Without Walls

Of course, not every moment is warm and fuzzy. Sometimes, a student doesn’t follow directions, and for safety’s sake, they can’t participate. It’s not easy to watch them miss out, but it’s important. And while I can always tell them that our actions have consequences, the horse really reinforces that lesson! When students take responsibility at the barn, they carry that ownership back into the classroom. We spend less time correcting behavior and more time learning.

This class isn’t just about horses. It’s about helping kids grow—academically, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s about creating moments where Jesus meets us in our fear, our joy, and our wonder. I’m so grateful to be part of it.