Raising Animal Lovers: Parent’s Guide

Introducing kids to farm animals isn’t just about fun — it’s a valuable learning and developmental opportunity. Here are a few reasons why farm visits are so beneficial:

• Teaches Responsibility and Empathy: Caring for animals helps kids understand the importance of kindness and responsibility.

• Connects Kids with Nature: Farm visits encourage children to appreciate the natural world and learn the connection between nature and the grocery store.

• Creates Unforgettable Memories: The joy of petting a soft sheep or watching a horse gallop can foster memories that last a lifetime.

Before heading to the farm, a little preparation can go a long way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. Dress Appropriately

• Comfortable Clothes: Dress kids in clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Farms are full of mud, hay, and other natural elements!

• Closed-Toe Shoes: Sturdy shoes protect little feet from uneven terrain and accidental steps.

• Sun Protection: Don’t forget hats and sunscreen for outdoor visits. Sunscreen is important on overcast winter days too!

2. Set Expectations

• Behavior Around Animals: Teach kids to approach animals calmly, without running, shouting, or making sudden movements.

• Ask for Permission: Encourage kids to ask barn hands (staff) before touching or feeding any animal.

Safety is key when introducing kids to farm animals. Here’s how to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

1. Start with Calm Animals

• Begin with gentle, friendly animals like school horses. These animals are usually more tolerant of kids due to their life-long training.

• Avoid more energetic or unpredictable animals until kids feel comfortable. Many people are surprised to hear that small ponies are usually more fiesty than big horses!

 2. Supervise at All Times

• Always keep an eye on kids as they interact with animals.

• Teach kids to stay close and follow instructions from adults and/or barn hands.

3. Hand Washing

• Remind kids to wash their hands thoroughly after touching animals. This helps prevent the spread of germs or triggering of mild allergies.

4. Respect Boundaries

• Teach kids not to pull tails, ears, or fur.

• Avoid feeding animals unless instructed by our barn hands.

Farm visits are full of opportunities for fun and learning. Here are some activities kids will love:

1. Feeding Animals

• Show kids how to safely feed animals, like using flat palms for horses or goats.

• Explain what each animal eats and why it’s important to follow feeding guidelines.

2. Grooming

• Let kids help brush gentle animals like horses or donkeys under supervision.

• Talk about how grooming helps keep animals healthy and happy.

3. Learning Opportunities

• Share fun facts about the animals (e.g., “Did you know goats have rectangular pupils?”).

• Encourage kids to ask questions and engage with farm staff.

It’s normal for some kids to feel nervous around animals. Here’s how to help them feel more comfortable:

• Start Slow: Let kids observe animals from a distance before getting closer. It's not a good idea to rush them! 

• Model behaviour: Demonstrate how to pet and groom them yourself, seeing a trusted adult show them how it's done will help.

• Encourage Questions: Answer their questions to help them understand the animals better. While it's true that all animals can be unpredictable, there are certain measures we can take to interact with them safely. 

• Praise Small Steps: Celebrate when their smaller achievements, like not hiding behind an adult, or agreeing to pet the animals gently.

• Don't show fear yourself: If you feel nervous, chances are, your children will feed off your energy and experience the same fear! Work with the barn staff to step out of your own comfort zone in a safe, supported way. Your kids will follow in your footsteps!