Our Philosophy - Green Chimneys

Individualized Approach Takes Student from Struggle to Success

November 19, 2024

Our Philosophy

Green Chimneys is founded on the philosophy that it is healthy and therapeutic for children to interact with nature and provides a treatment setting in which all interactions with staff and the environment have a potential therapeutic value.

We strive to give students every opportunity to be a part of the environment, discover their own special talents, and develop the skills and confidence to grow into independent young adults.

We believe learning takes place both in and out of the classroom, and Green Chimneys School offers an enriched academic environment with a vast array of innovative programming, including life skills, music and art, animal-assisted activities, and outdoor education, all based in experiential learning. We carry out this work in alignment with our Guiding Principles, the blueprint for how we deliver our services and collaborate with each other to do so.

Human-Animal Interactions and Outdoor Experiences Help Children Develop Critical Skills

Our renowned nature-based programs encompass animal-assisted therapy, horticultural activities, humane education, ecological study and sustainable agriculture education. Students participate in animal care, garden maintenance, adventure activities and diverse service projects. Over time, these human-animal interactions and outdoor experiences help children develop critical skills:

Trust

Self-esteem

Empathy

Emotional regulation

Responsibility

Positive social interaction

Cooperation

Goal attainment

We also believe family connections are essential to treatment and growth. Parents/caregivers are viewed as the experts on their children – knowing what their challenges and strengths are, what works for them and what they hope for them. Families are expected to see their children frequently, take part in treatment planning and counseling sessions, attend workshops/retreats and provide guidance as to what their children need to be successful.

Gyrfalcon

Crowned the best for falconry in medieval times, gyrfalcons were once reserved for kings. As the largest falcon in the world, with exquisite plumage ranging from bright white to deep charcoal, gyrs are revered for their powerful skill of flight. Their long wings make hunting waterfowl from 3,000-feet-high a feasible and fantastical feat. This falcon was flown in the sport of falconry for several years.