HAE Interactions as Context

hai2022: Focus on A for Animal

November 30, 2021

This study is the first in a series of qualitative studies, and focused on describing the essence and nature of special education teachers’ lived experiences in incorporating nature-based interventions as a tool to improve youth social-emotional learning outcomes and promote positive youth development. It is also one of the first to examine nature-based interventions that are being implemented in a positive youth development context. This approach uses a strengths-based lens that views youth development as a process of mutual influence between youth and components of their social, constructed, and natural environment.

Almost universally, teaching staff perceive nature-based interventions to effect marked improvement in:

Prosocial behavior

Caregiving and nurturing

Connection to animals, plants and humans

Curiosity and excitement about learning

While staff acknowledged occasional or temporary challenges and barriers to student participation, overall, the nature-based activities are viewed as an essential component of the Green Chimneys education and treatment model.

Beetle the Appaloosa

Beetle, an Appaloosa horse, joined the Green Chimneys equine program from a private farm in Connecticut. He has a diverse background in multiple riding disciplines; his previous owner kept him in excellent condition through long-distance trail riding. Beetle also had basic training in the sport of Dressage, as well as jumping and other competitive events. Appaloosas are known for their beautiful spotted coats and typically have a small build.