Italian families seek educational farms and inclusive summer programs

A recent Coldiretti survey in Calabria shows that over a third of Italian families are looking for alternatives to traditional beach vacations for their children during the long summer break. Educational farms are gaining popularity, offering hands‑on activities such as bread‑making, cheese‑making, gardening and caring for farm animals. These farms also serve as cultural and social hubs in rural areas, helping to preserve local traditions, create jobs, and counter depopulation. Many are run by women entrepreneurs who combine agricultural production with educational and inclusive services.

Families with children who have disabilities face additional challenges in finding suitable summer activities. Many municipal or sports camps lack the staff or expertise to accommodate these needs, leaving parents with limited options. Advocates argue that inclusion requires only willingness and basic adaptations, and cite examples of programmes that have successfully opened their doors, reporting positive outcomes for both disabled children and the broader community.