About

The Barn at Spring Brook Farm is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization located on a 17-acre farm in West Chester, PA.  We serve children ages 2-17 with physical, cognitive and/or developmental disabilities.  We are one of the only organizations to offer these unique services in the Greater Philadelphia Region.

Our beautiful barn is the home to 18 small sized farm animals who are there to work and play. While at the Barn children and teens are able to care for these furry friends by feeding, walking and grooming them. In doing these activities they often develop a special bond with the animals which can be very empowering and life enriching. This relationship has a unique impact, often breaking down barriers and allowing children and teens to just be themselves. They gain confidence and find themselves trying and doing new things without hesitation. In caring for the animals, they discover what it’s like to be in a caretaker role. This experience builds invaluable skills for future life success.

In addition to our wonderful animals, we want children and teens to enjoy our beautiful grounds and explore the natural world. By engaging in natural environments, children with disabilities explore science concepts through hands-on activities adapted to their diverse needs. The Barn’s Outdoor Learning Center includes sensory gardens, raised beds for growing vegetables, a musical soundscape, mud kitchens and more. The Barn’s setting and programming allow for unique learning experiences that set our program apart from more traditional learning programs.

Check out our video to learn more!

Mission:

To enrich the developmental skills and lives of children with disabilities through animal-assisted and natured-based experiences.

Vision:

The Barn strives to be the leading, regional organization and resource committed to providing children with disabilities and their families a nurturing and interactive, animal and nature-based experience that brings joy and inspires them to pursue their best lives.

Guiding Principles:

  • Integrity – We are honest and ethical in management practices, stewardship of resources and programming for children, families and volunteers.
  • Quality – We engage in continuous learning about children with special needs and animal-assisted activities, and we provide a safe environment for staff, volunteers, children and their families.
  • Impact – We strive to make a measurable difference in our community and hold ourselves accountable to all we serve.
  • Equity – We treat all children as individuals with unique qualities and unrealized potential.
  • Respect – We treat everyone with dignity and compassion.
  • Confidentiality – We restrict access to information about children, their families and our donors.
  • Passion – We believe deeply in the unique bond between animals and children.

PLEASE NOTE WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

If you are interested in the programs and services we provide, we would be happy to show you around and share more during a Family Barn Visit! To schedule a Family Barn Visit, go to: www.springbrook-farm.org/programs/family-barn-visits or call us.

THE BARN’S ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER

360 Locust Grove Road

West Chester, PA 19382

610-793-1037