Outdoor Learning
Our outdoor learning programs allow participants of all abilities and experiences to learn about farming and the growing world around us. By engaging in hands-on planting, maintenance, and harvesting activities, participants experience emotional healing; improved cognitive skills; and improved balance, coordination, strength, and stamina. They are able to hone skills as they help grow thousands of pounds of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, which are used in farm-to-table cooking classes and events and donated to hunger relief efforts throughout the Rochester area.
Horticulture & Equine Active Learning (HEAL)
Taking advantage of all we have to offer on our 200-acre property, HEAL combines our equine and horticulture programs into one unique experience. Horses, plants, and beautiful natural surroundings are great reminders of mindfulness, teaching participants to slow down and be present.
School Group Program Options
The onboarding process for all groups includes a detailed discussion with each group's primary point of contact (staff, teacher, administrator) to determine subject curriculum, NYS learning standards, and transferable socio-emotional objectives to be covered. This ensures that what students learn during their HEAL experiences will impact their understanding of the subject material and interpersonal skills development beyond their time onsite.
Half-day field trip—Available for groups no larger than 30 and scheduled for two hours, this field trip includes up to three stations, typically starting with a walking educational tour of our pastures and barns. Students will have a hands-on encounter with one of our adaptive riding horses and learn all about the equine world! The horticulture station typically includes an interactive farm project that encourages exploration of the greenhouse, fields, and the natural world around us. Groups can also include a cooking or team-building station.
Full-day field trip—Available for groups no larger than 60 and scheduled for 3-5 hours depending on group size, this option includes four to six stations for students to rotate through. There is a break mid-program for lunch (not provided).
Multi-week program—Available for groups no larger than 24 and typically running 1.5 to two hours per visit. Four to eight visits are scheduled with a curriculum that slowly builds students’ knowledge, comfort, and abilities around horses and horticulture.
Interested? Contact Sara at smclaughlin@equicenterny.org
​​​Farm Friends
Farm Friends is an opportunity to engage in meaningful, nature-based learning while building friendships and exploring new interests. Led by our trained staff, participants work together to cultivate food crops on our teaching farm, in both the field and the greenhouse.
Through group work and hands-on projects, participants will develop practical skills and also enhance their social-emotional learning and connection with others. Our program is designed to be flexible and inclusive, with sensory-friendly spaces and activities that can be adapted to meet each participant’s needs.
​​​​​​​