Anna listened carefully even though Dottie had also given her a sheet of instructions to look over at home.

“We create an individual therapy plan for each student,” Dottie continued as one of the side walkers got Bennie positioned on the sleek black horse, its body glistening in the sunshine. “Some need to build confidence, and others need soothing for anxiety. We don’t focus so much on the particular disability as we do the student’s specific needs.”

Anna nodded, eager to be ready to do this on her own in two weeks. She and Dottie remained outside the fence while Dottie pointed out what Bennie’s side walkers were doing. “A lot of it’s common sense, really.”

Today Gabe was also inside the pen as a side walker, moving slowly around the circle while holding on to Emmie, the petite blond girl Anna had seen last week—she couldn’t be older than five. Anna noticed again how caring and gentle Gabe was. Especially with the smallest children.

One of the horses neighed, and then another. But generally, the only sounds were those of the horses’ hooves as they moved about.

Toward the end of the first session, Dottie asked if Anna had any questions.

“I do.” Anna smiled. “Would I be able to try walking with one of the steadier riders today?”

“You’re itchin’ to get started, ain’t ya?”

“I’d really love to.”

Dottie explained that Gabe was firm in thinking that volunteers required a minimum of two sessions of training before they were trusted to do it on their own. “I’m sure you understand.”

Anna agreed. “Of course.”

Dottie pointed to the stapled sheets of paper. “Be sure to familiarize yourself with everything by next Saturday, okay? Remember that children who are on the autism spectrum are encouraged to say their horse’s name and, when they’re ready, give it commands. By doing that yourself while side walking, you’ll encourage the child to do it, too.”

“I’ll try to have all of this memorized soon,” Anna assured her.

“And I’ll ask ya questions, just to make sure you’re ready.” Dottie turned her attention back to the horse pen. “You’ll love lending a hand here. Gabe is so great with all the volunteers . . . you’ll see.”

“You’ve been so helpful,” Anna told Dottie. “I appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome. I look forward to seein’ you next week.” Dottie invited her to stay around for the next session if she had time. “The more you observe the other volunteers in action, the more everything will sink in. It won’t be long before you’ll feel like you’re a part of the group.”