At Shrub Oak International School, a therapeutic day and residential school for autistic children, adolescents, and young adults, the opportunity for students to engage with animals offers numerous therapeutic benefits, contributing to students’ emotional, social, and cognitive development. The school’s farm, which is home to various animals, such as a miniature donkey, a miniature horse, pigs, chickens, goats, ducks, and rabbits, provides a nurturing environment where students can form meaningful connections with the animals. Michael Koffler, CEO of Shrub Oak International School, understands that these experiences allow students to build trust, develop empathy, and improve their emotional regulation. In addition, regular interaction with the animals promotes social engagement, helps reduce anxiety, and provides a calming influence that supports emotional well-being. The Shrub Oak International School farm serves as a safe space where students can enjoy these connections, enhancing their overall therapeutic experience in a natural, relaxed setting. This therapeutic integration of nature and animals is a cornerstone of Shrub Oak International School’s holistic approach to student well-being.
A miniature donkey, Tater, is a favorite among Shrub Oak International School students because he is so calm and affectionate. Tater’s gentle nature makes him an ideal companion for students experiencing anxiety or overstimulation. Interactions with Tater and other animals, like Tot the miniature horse, help students regulate their emotions and ease overstimulation, creating a calming sensory experience that promotes emotional stability.
One of the most powerful aspects of spending time on the farm at Shrub Oak International School is the non-verbal communication and emotional support the animals offer. Many autistic individuals face challenges with verbal communication, making it difficult to express their feelings or connect with others. The animals at Shrub Oak International School, like the cheerful pigs Oscar and Meyer, provide non-judgmental companionship. Michael Koffler, Shrub Oak International School CEO, explains that this unconditional love allows students to feel understood without the pressure of verbal interaction. The animals’ playful antics entertain and encourage students to develop deeper social connections. As students bond with the animals, they build the confidence to engage more comfortably in human interactions.
Students, under the close supervision of the school’s farmers, take on animal husbandry tasks such as feeding, grooming, or even petting and playing, all of which encourage the students to engage in meaningful, structured activities. These responsibilities foster a sense of routine and structure, which is important for many autistic students, and help improve focus and enhance motor skills. Moreover, caring for the animals teaches students about empathy and the importance of understanding the needs of others. Michael Koffler, Shrub Oak International School CEO, emphasizes that by learning how to care for animals, students develop a deeper sense of responsibility and accountability, which translates into their daily lives.
Many students at Shrub Oak International School participate in activities such as walking the animals or maintaining their environments, which help improve physical fitness and coordination. Activities like leading the animals on walks offer students a chance to engage in physical activity, promoting physical health and emotional well-being. These hands-on activities promote fine and gross motor skill development in a fun, engaging way. Furthermore, the act of caring for the animals instills a sense of independence and control, helping students feel confident and capable.
Beyond the immediate emotional and social benefits, Shrub Oak’s farm also fosters a deep connection between students and the natural world. Caring for animals and their environments teaches students about responsibility and compassion. Additionally, interacting with the farm animals offers sensory-rich activities, further enhancing students’ motor skills, cognitive development, and overall well-being in a peaceful, fun environment.
Michael Koffler, Shrub Oak International School CEO, shares that students are encouraged to observe and learn about the specific needs of each farm animal, stimulating problem-solving and critical thinking. Whether understanding the dietary habits of the rabbits or keeping a pool for the ducks, these interactions help students develop cognitive skills while enjoying their time on the farm. Through these interactions, students begin to appreciate the complexities of animal care, building a sense of ownership of their responsibilities. The farm becomes a dynamic learning environment where students can expand their knowledge while engaging with animals in a hands-on, experiential manner.
Shrub Oak’s dedicated team of farmers often expresses how much they learn from the students’ unique perspectives and their genuine enthusiasm for connecting with the animals. This mutual exchange fosters a collaborative environment where both students and farmers grow together, learning from one another daily.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Shrub Oak International School’s farm program is the confidence it instills in students. Caring for and bonding with the animals gives students a sense of accomplishment and boosts their self-esteem. Each achievement on the farm, whether successfully feeding an animal or completing a caretaking task, reinforces students’ belief in their own abilities. The positive feedback they receive—whether it’s a wagging tail, a gentle nuzzle, or a happy neigh—helps them feel valued and appreciated. These rewarding moments create a strong sense of purpose and belonging among the students.
For Shrub Oak International School students, the farm is not just a place to visit; it is an integral part of their therapeutic experience. The opportunity to connect with animals in a supportive environment allows students to build emotional resilience, develop essential life skills, and enjoy the simple joy of animal companionship. The farm program is designed to integrate seamlessly with each student’s individualized therapeutic goals, offering benefits that reach far beyond the farm itself.
According to Michael Koffler, Shrub Oak International School CEO, as the school continues to grow, the farm will remain a cornerstone of its commitment to holistic education. The inclusion of the farm reflects the school’s broader mission to create a nurturing, supportive environment that fosters growth in all areas of a student’s life. The school’s on-site farm program ensures that each student has the opportunity to thrive while experiencing the many benefits of caring for their animal friends. As part of the school’s ongoing commitment to innovative therapeutic approaches, the farm program will continue to grow, providing even more opportunities for students to connect with nature and animals.
For more information about Shrub Oak International School’s farm program, visit www.shruboak.org.
