Barnyard Love

Animal-Assisted Learning is a proven program that enhances literacy, math skills, and behavioral growth through interactive sessions with animals, both big and small. Each session focuses on an educational concept, often incorporating a horse or pony to engage children in learning games, reading, or problem-solving. These intuitive animals, guided by a trained facilitator, help children build confidence, navigate challenges, and stay motivated. Small animals have also proven highly effective, making learning more engaging and impactful.

1-hour sessions available for ages 3+

Barn on Wheels brings the gentle, loving animals of Hidden Hills Ranch to people of all ages, fostering connection, healing, and joy. This mobile program visits nursing homes, hospitals, schools, libraries, residential services, shut-ins, businesses, and more—sharing the warmth and companionship of our animals wherever they’re needed most. We believe in the power of human-animal bonds to inspire growth, provide comfort, and create lasting friendships.

Who doesn’t love cuddling a bunny or hugging a mini donkey? In Barnyard Buddies, you’ll explore our petting zoo, brushing donkeys, petting Wasabi the pig, walking dwarf goats, or collecting eggs from the coop. Meet our alpaca and emu, or spend time with bunnies and guinea pigs—always a favorite! Sessions may also include light farm chores, crafts, or stories, making for a fun and interactive experience.

1-hour sessions available for ages 3+
SARC families welcome

Our Barnyard Love program is certified to present Just Say Whoa to Bullying with our miniature horse, Shelby. Our trainers bring Shelby to school assemblies, group talks, and community events to promote kindness, respect, and anti-bullying awareness.

Every seven minutes, a child is bullied, with nearly 1 in 3 students experiencing bullying each school year. An alarming 90% of 4th–8th graders report being victims, and 160,000 children miss school daily due to fear of harassment. Even more concerning, nearly 75% of school shootings have been linked to bullying, with 87% of surveyed students citing it as a primary motivator. The effects are far-reaching—bullied students face higher risks of depression, anxiety, and academic struggles, while bullies themselves are more likely to develop substance abuse issues and engage in violence later in life.

Just Say Whoa® to Bullying is an innovative program that uses miniature therapy horses to teach bullying prevention through animal-assisted activities. Our interactive presentation helps children recognize and respect differences, fostering acceptance, kindness, and positive character development. By promoting empathy and inclusivity, programs like Just Say Whoa® to Bullying have been shown to reduce bullying by up to 25%, creating safer, more supportive school environments.

Hidden Hills Ranch offers guided, animal-assisted experiences for children and teens who benefit from extra support in social, emotional, and developmental growth. Through meaningful interactions with our Barnyard Love animals, participants build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and learn to express emotions in a safe, encouraging environment.

Set in a calm outdoor setting, these sessions foster connection, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging. A trained mentor works with children ages 5 to 18, using gentle, hands-on experiences with our miniature horses and other ranch animals to support personal growth and positive life skills.

Disclaimer: Therapeutic Mentor Sessions are not led by a medical or counseling professional.