Monday – Friday | APPOINTMENT ONLY
Five Filly Farmers
In Partnership with Five Filly Farm & Autism 360
TM
Sow it | Grow it | Succeed Together |
Five Filly Farm is excited to announce an innovative partnership with Autism 360 to offer a unique immersive farm experience for children with autism. The program is built around the idea that learning happens best when it's engaging, hands-on, and connected to real-world experiences. Getting back to our roots and nature can have a profound effect on neural development. The Five Filly Farmers program was constructed in response to several recent studies around screen time and brain development in young children.
A landmark National Institutes of Health (NIH) study that began in 2018, for example, found that children who spent more than two hours a day on screen-time activities scored lower on language and thinking tests, and some children with more than seven hours a day of screen time experienced thinning of the brain’s cortex, the area of the brain related to critical thinking and reasoning. In response to these studies, the Five Filly Farmers program abstains from the use of electronic reinforcement during service delivery.
In the Five Filly Farmer program, children develop essential life skills by participating in farm and agricultural activities that encourage independence, problem-solving, skill acquisition, and communication. Whether learning animal husbandry skills, feeding the animals, working in the garden, managing the farm store, or engaging in structured farm play, each experience is designed to reinforce positive behaviors and support long-term development without using electronics.
Research shows children exhibit more enthusiasm, peer to peer engagement, and developmental success in natural settings compared to traditional therapy spaces.
Nearly half of all children 8 yr and under have their own tablet device and spend an average of about 2.25 hours a day on digital screens...
according to Common Sense Media.
Nature's Recipe for Life
Five Filly Farmers believe in the value of leveraging the amazing opportunities of nature. Farm programs offer a range of benefits for children’s development by fostering learning and play in natural environments.
The Five Filly Farmer program provides hands-on, experiential learning that boosts problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. Children engage in inquiry-based activities, like observing farm animals or experimenting with natural materials, which enhance focus and treatment outcomes.
Building Social Skills and learning farm tasks are keynote practices for the Five Filly Farmer Program. Utilizing collaborative tasks, such as group projects or games, develops teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. The inclusive, structured environment allows children of varying abilities to thrive, fostering empathy and cooperation while learning real life skills.
Sowing Success | One garden at a time |
Sowing Success
The Five Filly Farmers program improves environmental awareness. Regular interaction with nature cultivates a sense of environmental stewardship. Children learn about ecosystems, sustainability, and the importance of protecting natural spaces, fostering lifelong eco-conscious behaviors and problem solving skills.
Building Confidence and Independence one seed at a time. The Five Filly Farmer Program offers opportunities for calculated risk-taking, like using tools or navigating challenges, which build self-confidence and decision-making skills. The freedom to explore encourages autonomy and resilience.
Five Filly Farmer Programs
Farm-to-Table Learning
Children's Garden
A study of male youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) showed that garden program participants with ASD made significant improvements in independence, adaptive behavior, and interaction skills.
Scartazza et al., 2020, Caring local biodiversity in a healing garden: Therapeutic benefits in young subjects with autism
Music Garden
Notes of Change
Music is a universal language. The Five Filly Farmer Program utilizes a magical music garden to teach children to connect to nature through music and motion. The shaded garden is protected under a forest canopy of aged trees and includes several large outdoor play areas to develop gross motor skills.
Animal
Husbandry
Farm Life
Caring for animals helps children understand and respect the needs of other living beings. Animals also teach children how to manage emotions, exercise empathy, and develop patience through guided interactions and farm chores.
Little people, growing shoots,
happy hearts, dirty boots
Letting kids dig in the dirt isn't just fun—it's essential for their growth! Playing in nature boosts creativity, sparks curiosity, and builds resilience as they explore the world hands-on. It strengthens their immune systems, reduces stress, and fosters a love for the environment. From mud pies to garden adventures, getting dirty helps kids learn, grow, and thrive in ways screens can't match. Five Filly Farmers are encouraged to dive into the mess—it's where the magic happens!
Get Dirty. Its Suprisingly good for your health
Mud play is a sensory-rich adventure for kids with autism, offering unique benefits for growth and joy. Digging into squishy, cool mud engages their senses, promoting sensory integration and reducing anxiety. It sparks creativity, encourages social interaction, and builds fine motor skills through hands-on exploration. Let your child dive into the messy fun of mud—it's a natural, transformative way to learn, connect, and thrive!
Animal Husbandry
Teaching kids to care for animals is a powerful way to nurture their growth and compassion. By feeding, grooming, and tending to farm animals, children develop responsibility, empathy, and patience. They learn to understand non-verbal cues, boosting emotional intelligence and communication skills. Caring for animals also reduces stress, builds confidence, and fosters a sense of purpose through meaningful tasks. Plus, it instills a lifelong respect for living creatures and the environment. Let your kids discover the joy of animal husbandry in the Five Filly Farmers Program.
Indoor Gross Motor Play
Indoor gross motor play is a fun way to prepare kids for farm skill activities while keeping them active! Activities like climbing our net tree, using the barn pulley system, and learning how to take turns on equipment mimic the physical demands of tasks like feeding animals or hauling supplies. These playful movements build strength, coordination, and balance—key prerequisites for farm work. Plus, they boost confidence and problem-solving skills in a safe, engaging environment. Get your kids moving indoors to lay the foundation for mastering farm skills with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we visit the farm for a tour?
At this time we are not accepting drop in visits. For the safety of the animals and participants, all visitors my first schedule an appointment through A360 at 704-529-9090
Can I volunteer in the Five Filly Farmer Program?
Yes, we have limited spots for farm volunteers depending on experience and availability. Reach out through the contact form below to learn more.
Can I buy produce, eggs, or swag directly from the farm?
We offer produce, eggs, and/or swag seasonally throughout the year to families of active Five Filly Farmer participants. The Five Filly Farmers will manage the farm store , all proceeds will be used to teach budgeting skills and reinvest in the farm animals.
Contact Us
Reach out to us for any inquiries or collaborations. We'd love to hear from you.