Ms Trinkler, El Respiro is a horse-assisted programme. What is it all about?
We provide a place of learning and experience for nursery and primary school children who are currently unable to attend school, or who can no longer attend full-time. They need a place where they can find peace, build up their resilience and regain a sense of stability. El Respiro is a complementary educational setting to school: the aim is for a child to be able to return to their regular class after their time with us, or for the referring school to find a sustainable follow-up solution.
At the horse farm, children can expect a supportive environment, underpinned by clear structures, relationships and educational guidance.
What topics are the children interested in?
It may be life-changing events that have thrown them off course, fears that prevent them from going to school, attachment issues or difficulties with emotional regulation that make social interaction challenging for them. School routines can also be overwhelming for them, as they struggle to process sensory input and need more time and structure. What all these children have in common is that they are at their limit, and the school environment is too much for them to cope with. That is when we step in to provide support.
Our «Atempause» programme is a preventative measure that comes into play when it becomes apparent that a situation is coming to a head. The child continues to attend school but spends part of the week with us, working on their issues here. For children who are temporarily unable to attend school, we offer six- to twelve-week «time-outs». The focus is on stabilisation and ensuring they can return to school under adapted conditions.
What can children expect to find on the farm?
A trusting environment, underpinned by solid structures, relationships and educational support. Personal development and learning go hand in hand. Horses provide a very direct reflection of our inner state, without judgement. They are invaluable teachers for children when it comes to self-awareness, communication and dealing with stress and emotions. They enable children to find new ways of taking responsibility, developing self-efficacy and learning more about their own strengths. It is heart-warming to see how children rise to the occasion here.
Further information
El Respiro, near Winterthur (ZH), is open to schools from all cantons.
