Ducklings, bunnies, and miniature horses were just some of the main attractions during a special Open Farm Day held at Wolf Manor Equestrian Centre on Saturday.
The day was designed for people with autism or special needs. Loud music was turned off and no other animals, like dogs, were roaming.
“Those families that have special needs have sensitivities to sounds or crowds so this gives them an opportunity to know it’s a safe and secure environment for them,” said the farm’s owner Alisha Wolf.
A second open house was held Sunday for everybody.
Cornwall resident Coralee Simpson noticed Saturday’s event on Facebook. Upon looking at the event, she noticed the farm’s summer camp program for autistic children as well.
She thought the camp may be perfect for her eight-year-old son Dane, so they decided to visit the open house to get a taste of what it may be like.
“I signed my son up so we came to the open house to see what it’s all about,” said Simpson.
The event did not disappoint.
Dane said he had a good day and there was one group of animals in particular that was his favourite.
“The bunnies,” he said.
Wolf also has a program for children with autism called Horsemanship Empowerment where she works one on one with the children to help teach them life skills.
“We do whatever they need, whether it’s academics, or community aid, socializing... we work with the animals to teach them all of these skills,” she said. “So we’re teaching mathematics, language, social skills.”
More information on the centre and its programs can be found at the Wolf Manor Equestrian Centre Facebook page.
