Simmons Farm

8/10 Mommy Approved Smiling Faces

1942 West Main Rd

Middletown, RI

http://simmonsorganicfarmri.com/

 (401) 848-9910

The kids learned a valuable lesson at Simmons Farm

My kids and I enjoyed the goat hike at Simmons Farm. My son adored being “in-charge” of his own pet.  He soon learned who was really in-charge of who.  He took great pride in looking after his new friend “Spike” and seeing to it that he stayed with the group, didn’t lag behind or misbehave. It was adorable and a good lesson for him to learn the challenges pet owners face. I think both my kids can now see that owning a pet is not just about providing them with cuddles and love, but that it takes hard work.  This was a valuable  lesson-learned by walking a goat for an hour+!

Simmons farm helped teach the kids PATIENCE

It was amusing how my son was very calm (not his norm) during the hike, and the goat he chose was mischievous.  Karla Simmons explained that the goats take our energy so, they switched positions.  She told us how Spike is normally docile and wondered what had gotten into him.  I’m pretty sure my son got into him!  He was jumping up to get into the food bucket that Karla carried and running, pulling my son behind him at times during the hike.  He was certainly out of character.  Can you see how this would amuse a mom of a normally rowdy boy?  He received a dose of his own medicine and he kept encouraging Spike to behave.  My son was a patient and persistent teacher though, and  I was proud to over-see him nurturing and showing kindness toward his goat. He really owned the responsibility of being Spike’s care-taker.

What the family liked about simmons Farm :

The kids and I enjoyed Simmons Farm because we got to be with animals, be active in a beautiful environment, learn about the farmland history and present day in the state of Rhode Island and see a tour of the property with various animal education and sightings provided by Karla Simmons. The combo of history, activeness, scenery, animal therapy and education is perfect to satisfy any crowd.

Overall, this experience with the kids was a win for us.  We found it to be informative, therapeutic, fun and beautiful.  The hike was not strenuous and with the rest breaks to learn about various locations and feed the goats, it extended the walk, but in general the hike is rather short.  Because it was hot on the day we ventured here, we were happy to find some shady spots during the hike.  Karla was kind enough to provide us with some lemonade and a sink to wash up after finishing the trail.  We all felt satisfied and light -hearted after the goat hike.

Have you ever tried any goat’s milk products?  They are amazing due to their hydrating properties.  

 

The Skinny:

• • Weather :  This is an outdoor location so come dressed for the elements.
  • Parking and Admissions :   There is a big parking lot off the main road.  The cost for this hike with kids depends on what you wish to do.  It is recommended to have young kids and their adults get 1 goat to share as opposed to, two separate goats for each child.  Too many goats and young kids together can be a hassle.  We opted for two adults with two kids under 9 and one goat which cost us $40 and fees to reserve on-line.
  • Location :  This is an organic farm in Middletown, Rhode Island that has been around for 350 years.  The farm is 120 acres and has various farm animals including goats, horses, pigs, chickens, geese, ducks and cow.  The goat hike offers views of the Narragansett Bay, meadows and a babbling brook.  The farm has meat, cheese and produce all from its property for sale.  Various workshops and events take place all the time throughout the year.  Check here for their current activities.
  • Hours : The goat hike is an hour and a half but after that you may pet and feed the animals leisurely.
  • Duration :  We stayed here about 2 hours hanging out after the hike was done to mingle with other kids and families
  • Tips and Recommendations :  Wear shoes that you can comfortably walk in and don’t mind getting dirty, bug spray, sunscreen and bring a drink for during the walk.  Spring is baby goat season so be sure to visit then because they are the cutest!

 

Jewel Approved: 👍🏼

Jamison Approved: 👍🏼

If your kids loved goat hiking here at Simmons Farm, be sure to check out Roger Williams Botanical Garden where you can also inquire about walking the goats but this time on their beautiful garden grounds.  If being with animals is your thing, be certain to check out West Place Animal Sanctuary at one of their quarterly open houses.