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

 "The positive experiences with human-horse interactions have shown  profound healing on physical, emotional and mental challenges. As a  result, children with autism often begin to say new words or express  themselves more often."  -  Cugipo M. Onusugosido

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, Nicki Swann 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 5-12 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.

A session of Discover Your Child’s Best Self runs for six weeks, with a 45-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. 

“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.”