Children and Youth at SOS Kannerduerf Lëtzebuerg Learn and Grow Through Nature-Based Education

Children and young people placed in the care of SOS Kannerduerf Lëtzebuerg benefit from animal-assisted learning and develop leadership skills through the Youthful Nature program.

Inspired by a survey conducted by and for the organization’s internal youth parliament, SOS Kannerduerf Lëtzebuerg chose to focus on sustainable development by launching Youthful Nature. This project allows children and young people who have experienced trauma to engage in ecology and sustainability workshops, while also participating in animal-assisted education. Thanks to the support of the Lily & Francy Foundation, Youthful Nature helps inspire these youth to connect with and care for the natural world.

The SOS Children’s Village in Mersch is home to a range of friendly animals including horses, ponies, donkeys, cows, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, parakeets, fish, and cats. Animal-assisted learning helps participants develop social and motor skills, fosters autonomy, and supports emotional healing.

Through the Youthful Nature program, children take responsibility for animal care and help with organizational tasks, gaining practical skills that promote empathy for animals and respect for the environment. The routines involved in caring for animals also serve as effective training for following rules and social structure, helping to build confidence and a sense of responsibility.