Youth Development Programme
From Struggle to Strength
“I have seen Think Like a Pony change the lives of some of the
hardest to reach children in our community. These are children who are at high risk of self-harm, suicide,
depression and chronic anxiety.” – Annie Mandelstam, Child Clinical Psychologist
A Pony Can Reach the Heart When Words Cannot
youthdevelopment@thinklikeapony.co.uk
Some children carry burdens too heavy to put into words. Others feel disconnected, angry, anxious, or lost. For these young people, a pony can offer a lifeline.
At Think Like a Pony, we harness that unique bond and take it further. Our ponies don’t just soothe; they teach. They help children understand trust, respect, and empathy – not through lectures, but through real, felt experience. The pony becomes both a mirror and a mentor, reflecting the child’s emotions and responding with quiet honesty.
Lessons Learned Here, Lived Everywhere
Our work goes beyond simply being around animals. Every session is a guided journey where children learn how to:
- Breathe to calm their bodies and minds.
- Notice their intention and how it shapes their relationships.
- Communicate with their body language to earn a pony’s trust.
- Plan and problem-solve with clarity and confidence.
These lessons with a pony become life lessons – building a young person’s foundations for healthier relationships with themself, with others, and with the world.
Who We Help
Our programme supports children and young people facing:
- Anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
- Trauma, isolation, or emotional withdrawal
- Behavioural challenges at home, in school, or in the community
- School non-attendance or disengagement from education
- Risk of exploitation, offending, or contact with youth justice services
We also work alongside children known to CAMHS, social services, and other support agencies.
“Thanks for helping me through some of my toughest times & helping my light shine. Thanks for pushing me when I most needed it & reassuring me. But most of all, thanks for helping me to Think Like a Pony”
Youth Development Student
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