Nature Centers for Human-Animal Interaction
HAI Sessions
Nature Centers for Human-Animal Interaction (nCHAI) is aligned with the mission of the Human Animal Life Foundation (HALF) which focuses on interactions of children and animals in a natural environment for the benefit of both.
nCHAI offers Human-Animal Interaction (HAI) Sessions at the Powell Road center which provides a nature-based environment for children to interact with many different animals including horses, ponies, donkeys, goats, cows, pigs, llamas, alpacas, birds, cats, dogs and various wildlife. The methodologies used teach each child how to properly interact with animals, how to provide proper care for all animals and the environment while developing real life skills focusing on empathy, trust and nurturing. Being in the nature-centered environment also teaches about conservation and sustainability, farming skills, work ethic and responsibility. These teachings promote positive behaviors from the children who are in turn taught to apply what they have learned to their relationships with other people and just as importantly to themselves as building blocks to self-esteem, self-worth, self disciple and self-respect.
HAI Session curriculum developed by Dr. Sandra Blanton, PhD, LMHC and Executive Director, Felicia Bass, VP, Human Animal Life Foundation.