Advocating for young readers since 2018.
Headquartered out of Sunset Maple Farm in Marengo, Illinois, Paws, Hands, & Hooves improves young readers’ lives with programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Our program specializes in animal-assisted intervention to improve social, emotional, and cognitive functioning.
Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.
Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.
Get ready to experience the excitement as the Pony Professors trot right into your child’s heart!
Our lineup of engaging events is designed to inspire and educate horse enthusiasts and readers of all ages.
From clubs, camps, play dates and parties - we offer something for everyone!
Don't miss out on the chance to participate and trot on over to sign up today! Make sure to subscribe to the Pony Professors Newsletter below too!
Meet the Pony Professors
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Professor Gnocchi
Color: White Flea Bitten
Age: 10 years old
Favorite Book to Read: Silver Shines
Favorite Color: Red
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Professor Sweet Potato Pie
Color: Brown & White
Age: 6 years old
Favorite Book to Read: The Adventures at the Short & Sweet Ranch
Favorite Color: Pink
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Professor Tater Tot
Color: Silver Dapple/Liver Chestnut
Age: 12 years old
Favorite Book to Read: The Magic Treehouse
Favorite Color: Green
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Professor Potato Pancake
Color: Liver Chestnut
Age: 6 years old
Favorite Book to Read: Pony Mysteries
Favorite Color: Orange
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Professor Gracie
Color: Bay
Age: 20 years old
Favorite Book to Read: Where the Red Fern Grows
Favorite Color: Orange
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Professors Apple & Jax
Color: Grey
Age: Jax is 10, Apple is 12 years old
Favorite Book to Read: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Favorite Color: Yellow
Frequently Asked Questions
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For safety, children should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots that fully cover and protect their feet. Tennis shoes are acceptable for beginner barn visits and ground activities, but sandals, Crocs, flip-flops, open-toed shoes, and shoes with loose backs are not recommended. Expect shoes to get dusty or dirty around the barn.
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Yes, the liability waiver allows us to comply with state equine liability laws and helps protect both participants and our facility. For the safety of everyone involved, a signed waiver is required before participating in any horse-related activity.
Go to the Services page to find the liability waiver form.
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Horse Powered Reading® integrates social-emotional learning with academics; thus allowing students to experience reading with their entire mind, body and emotions by creating metaphors for the skills involved in reading.
Students interact with horses from the ground, while using toys and props to identify obstacles and learn the five critical reading skills - phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.
* Session goals vary depending upon the needs of the individual or group