Summer Camp
More than we ever imagined
When we began planning our very first Equine Therapy Summer Camps, we hoped children would have fun, learn new skills, and leave feeling a little more confident than when they arrived.
What we didn’t expect was just how meaningful the experience would become—for the children, their families, and for us.
Over five days, we watched children build confidence, learn emotional regulation skills, strengthen friendships, and discover that they are capable of hard things. Every day included hands-on activities, creative projects, movement, interactions with our therapy animals, and opportunities to practice calming skills in real-life situations.
One of the greatest joys was watching children who were nervous on the first day become confident leaders by the end of the week. We saw kids encouraging one another, solving problems together, asking for help, celebrating successes, and taking pride in the tools they were learning.
The role of therapy animals
Our therapy animals played an important role in that journey. Our horses, donkey, goat, and even our piggies have an incredible way of helping children slow down, become present, and feel safe enough to practice new skills. Through caring for the animals and participating in equine-assisted activities, children learned about emotions, body cues, coping strategies, communication, and connection in ways that feel natural and memorable.
One of the messages we hope every child took home is that all feelings are okay. The goal isn’t to make feelings disappear—it is to recognize them, understand what our bodies are telling us, and learn healthy ways to respond. Throughout the week, each child built a regulation toolbox filled with strategies they can continue using at home and at school.
As this was our very first year offering these camps, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. We spent months planning every activity, hoping we could create something that would truly make a difference. By the end of the summer, the children’s smiles, confidence, and connections told us we had created something special.
Does it have to end?
Perhaps the greatest measure of success came from the families.
One mom shared these words after camp ended:
“I’ve never seen **** so brokenhearted about anything coming to an end. Maybe you’d consider a mini version during school breaks?”
Reading those words reminded us that this camp became more than just a week of activities. For many children, it became a place where they felt accepted, understood, capable, and connected. Those are experiences that children carry with them long after camp is over.
We are incredibly grateful to every family who trusted us with their children during this first summer. Thank you for believing in this new adventure and allowing us to be part of your family’s journey. Your encouragement, kind words, and support have meant more than you know.
Because of the overwhelming response, we’re already exploring opportunities to offer additional camps during school breaks and next summer. We can’t wait to welcome both returning and new campers back to the farm for more learning, healing, laughter, and connection. Click on the link to read more about DeAnna’s work at the Center.
To every child who came through our gates this summer—thank you. You made our very first year one we’ll never forget.
