Horse Whisper Kids Program
The Benefits of Nature & Animal Assisted Activities
At The Lucky Horse Sanctuary, we believe that nature makes children healthier and happier. Learning to play and be outside sparks curiosity and imagination, and helps build social connections. Studies indicate that being in nature or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress. Exposure to nature not only makes “us” feel better emotionally, but it also contributes to our physical wellbeing. In a society that is constantly “plugged in”, the Horse Whisper Kids Program promotes the wellness of disconnecting from technology.
Our goal is to teach children & adolescents healthy coping skills to handle the stresses of life and reduce the longer-term mental health issues. Time in nature and with animals is an antidote for stress. It can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system functioning, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.
Nature connectedness is associated with lowing levels of depression and anxiety and increasing happiness. Evidence shows that our relationship with nature and animals is so important to our well-being. Animal Assisted Activities is based on interacting with animals. These types of interactions show improvement in social skills, and motor functions, diffuse anxiety, and even lowers blood pressure.
What We offer
The Horse Whisper Kids Program offers Animal Assisted Activities
- Summer Camps – typically run from June to August
- Riding & Tacking Sessions – scheduled by appointment in groups. We teach natural horsemanship and non-competitive safe riding.
- Educational Programming – this is an opportunity for youth to learn about barn life and animal care, working directly with our rescued animals.
All our programming is customizable and ranges from one-day field trips to intensive, multi-week wellness programs. At The Lucky Horse Sanctuary, we work with local schools, mental health organizations, and other community organizations to create programs and conduct classes both on the farm and at our partners’ site locations.
To learn more about our Animal Assisted wellness and educational activities, please contact us for more information.
