In the emerging field of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and animal-assisted activities (AAA), there are few "hands-on" manuals that outline and describe the step-by-step tasks necessary to carry out programs which combine humans and animals. This manual was born from the work we have done in our combined years of therapeutic and educational experience with individuals and animals. We would also not have made this project a reality without our connection with a unique farm site where children receive mental health and behavior modification support.
Whether your animal of choice is a horse, a dog, a rabbit, a pig, a snake, or just the great outdoors, there is something in this manual for everyone. The twenty lesson plans that follow were originally designed for young adolescents but can easily be modified to fit any age group or population.
The instructor of these lesson plans should be ready to capitalize on moments where animal interactions and signals can be translated into human experiences. Such "metaphors for life" or "experiential learning" can become the catalyst that drives change during a therapeutic or educational relationship. Animal-to-animal interactions become animal-to-human interactions and are then used as models for one's daily life.
It is our hope that we can inspire and empower educators, therapists, social workers, animal behaviorists, and a whole host of other individuals to continue to add credibility and support to the power and healing that exists in the human-animal bond.
Cost: $45.00
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Contents
Table of Contents
 Introduction
Trust Walk
Fish Hatchery & the Importance of Surroundings
Peer Pressure/Socializing/Herd Behavior
Bats & Self Awareness
Community Service Kindergarten Visits Farm
Birds of Prey & Fieldtrip
Horse Breeds
Backyard Birds
Grooming Horses
Animal Messages: "Fight or Flight?"
Care of Pregnant Animal & Baby
Build Hay Crib
Animal Care: Sheep
Animal Cooperation
Wolf Fieldtrip
Understanding and Respect for Diverse Populations
Raise a Calf for Helfer Project International
Quality Improvement in Buildings and Grounds
Personality Traits, Both Positive and Negative
Geese: A Display of Instinct or Learned Behavior?
Bibliography
Resources
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