Firstly, our devoted team of professionals connect with Youth because we share similar life experiences. Every member of our team has overcome negative life events and has the unique ability to meet kids 'where they're at' with acceptance and guidance. Secondly, our teachers make an impact! Without judgement, they respond to each Youth with cause & effect responses to the Youth's behaviour. Our one of a kind, BuildingBlock™ Certified Equine Assisted Learning Program© will teach your group how four-legged teachers assist participants in learning the power and strength of communication and other other critical life skills. WHY HORSES? Working with horses as teachers completely changes the dynamics of traditional learning. The non-verbal communication of a horse reflects an immediate and honest reaction to the stimulus directed towards them, which in return, causes the client to recognize and adjust how they approach situations. Horses can discern the difference between a calm, non-threatening approach and an anxious nervous energy. Horses respect the strict hierarchy of the herd, look for strong leadership and are willing to follow once they trust. Horses are large and powerful animals. It is natural for some participants to feel fearful and intimidated by the size and power of a horse. As participants can work to overcome their fears and develop a relationship of trust with the horse, they are naturally developing confidence in themselves. Accomplishing a task with the horse in spite of their fears, carries over to dealing with other challenging and intimidating situations in their lives. Every time participants interact with horses there is learning taking place, guaranteed. WHAT'S MY ADVANTAGE IN CHOOSING THIS TYPE OF SKILLS TRAINING VS TRADITIONAL CLASSROOM TRAINING? Experiential learning is a key element of success. When a person is involved, self-evaluating and self-initiating their learning process, they retain and apply that knowledge. The effects of experiential learning are pervasive, meaning that they affect large areas of the learners' life. "Tell me, I may listen. Teach me, I may remember. Involve me, I will do it."

None. This is not about horsemanship, it's about personal skill development. Our program does not require you to ride a horse, and no prior experience is necessary. All interaction with horses is done from the ground. We will demonstrate safety measures with every group, going over the rules and safety precautions to take in the arena. We always put safety first, and can accommodate everyone's different comfort levels around horses.

Yes, we are certified by the Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning as Equine Assisted Learning Facilitators. Yes, we carry extensive insurance for ourselves and those who attend our program.

Weather appropriate (hat, jacket, shorts...) and closed-toed shoes are the most important. Clothing that you don’t mind getting a little dusty is also recommended. Helmets are provided for everyone under 18 years old and are available to anyone else who chooses to wear them.

We will conduct exercises outdoors unless weather conditions are extreme. Barring heavy rain or lightning, we will dress appropriately and proceed to work outside. Of course, if the weather is a safety concern, we will take the necessary steps to ensure everyone’s safety.

We are conveniently located in the heart of Central Alberta. Within 90 minutes of both Edmonton and Calgary and 15 minutes West of Red Deer. The farm is fronted by a major highway (Hwy 11) so you cannot miss us. Super convenient!