Benefits of Farm Work

Life on a farm and the work it requires can be beneficial for adults and children when done safely.

In general, farm work for adults is thought to provide exercise, fresh air, opportunities for problem solving, appreciation for land and animals, and satisfaction in one’s work. Agricultural communities in many areas also enjoy a celebrated social status and have tight knit communities and families that provide support in times of need.

Work and learning responsibility is good for children and teens in all walks of society. Agriculture, in particular, offers many opportunities for youth to develop work skills and benefit from farm life.

Benefits of growing up on farms often mentioned:

• Instills a passion, love, and respect for land
• Builds character
• Instills a good work ethic
• Teaches responsibility
• Facilitates a bond with family and a common project
• Teaches responsibility
• Provides lots of room for youth to play
• Builds lifelong friendships with other farm youth
• You get to have the best pets

Research in child development and family relations studies validates some of these beliefs*:

• Children who complete chores in exchange for their allowances, or as a part of a family business, have more respect for saving and spending.
• Families that complete tasks together have stronger bonds.
• Cognitive ability, understanding of life cycles, and ability to deal with anxiety have been shown to improve if people have regular interactions with plants and animals.
• Health benefits include a marked reduction in inflammatory bowel disorders, allergies, atopy, and asthma.

Striking the balance between benefits and risks:

• Farms and ranches possess a number of qualities (plants, animals, family, chores, business features) that can be beneficial for youth.
• However, farms are the most dangerous and deadly worksite in the US.
• It is important to assign farm youth age and developmentally appropriate work, enabling them to reap the benefits of farm life, while helping to minimize the risks.