Discover Your Child's Best Self: Farm Experiences for Children with Special Needs

Campbell's Lane Farm offers a child-focused farm experience that acknowledges the unique needs of each child. On the welcoming grounds of Campbell’s Lane Farm children to learn at their own pace as they develop their own abilities. Experienced horsewomen and educators Jennifer Fox and Anne Altvater form relationships with the children so they leave each session feeling accomplished and excited about returning to the farm and their animal friends.

This program designed for special needs children uses farm-related activities to help children develop balance, fine motor skills, core strength, and flexibility. Children learn at their own pace as they acquire confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Children ages 5-18 who will benefit from these private sessions may have

a medical diagnosis, such as autism or cerebral palsy
sensory processing difficulties due to hypotania (low muscle tone), developmental delay, and coordination disorders
a mental, emotional or physical condition that requires a different approach to learning and living

A child-focused farm experience teaches your child about the natural consequences of interacting with the world around them. Unlike the virtual reality of a video game or a movie, the child sees that when he plays in the dirt, he gets dirty; when she encounters a bee, she need to respect its territory.

The Campbell's Lane Farm team consults with occupational therapists, physical therapists, pediatric specialists, and mental health practitioners to ensure that each child is safe and understood.

This program is available through individual 45-minute sessions and in a 6-week series with a 60-minute session scheduled each week. Day and evening appointments are available. Sessions start on time so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to give your child time to get ready.

You and the team working with your child will assess his or her needs before the first session. With expert guidance your child will have an opportunity to work through any issue that he or she faces on a daily basis. At agreed upon intervals you and the team will assess your child’s experience and adjust the program as needed.

Donkeys as Healers

Learn more about how donkeys can turn a farm outing into a healing experience.

PBS New Hour, March 13, 2019: How donkeys are helping kids with autism process their feelings

Humans are accustomed to turning to dogs, cats and even horses for comfort and companionship. But now another type of livestock is becoming more popular for its therapeutic appeal: the donkey. As WGBH’s Cristina Quinn reports, equine therapy has branched out to include the smaller, less majestic relative of the horse, and it’s delivering relief for children with autism.

Modern Farmer, 2014: Farm Confessional: I Believe in the Healing Powers of Donkeys

With a concept of care farming, some donkeys can turn a farm into a relieving place for peopl

The donkeys of Campbell’s Lane Farm are “quiet ambassadors of internal peace."

What Our Clients are Saying

“Pony care sneaks in hard work, strengthening and repetition that (my daughter) usually freaks out about. She lights up when speaking about the program and loves sharing the knowledge she has learned.”

“(My son) has struggled with lack of muscle tone but the strength in his fingers, arms and legs have improved as well as his balance.”

“I love how Jennifer worked with (my son). She met him where he was, she encouraged, and she pushed him gently out of his comfort zone to know that he is capable.”