Your son or daughter wants to take riding lessons. You don’t mind the idea; but what do you need to know to help them achieve the stable to trail dream?
First and foremost, you need a good riding stable to take lessons at. A riding stable should put the needs of their animals ahead of profit. You want to see horses in good condition, with shiny coats and lively eyes. You also want a riding instructor with knowledge of children and the patience to work with them.
Kids need a special touch, especially when dealing with a thousand pound animal. A good riding instructor will not only be able to get down on their level, but will help them develop an appreciation for horses and their care. Try to avoid a riding stable that presents the child with a saddled horse and doesn’t involve them in the horse care at all.
While a five year old is hardly capable of grooming a horse or even handling a horse by themselves, they need to learn an appreciation for caring for the animal. They need to understand what it means to see to the animal’s needs and to think beyond themselves.
A good riding instructor will introduce your child to a wealth of concepts in a controlled atmosphere there at the barn and in a riding arena. At some point, however, your child will be introduced to trail riding. If it is at all possible, you should go on a trail ride with them.
Riding on a trail requires far more attention than when you are riding in an arena. However, the natural beauty of an area combined with the scents and good conversation can make a trail ride a fun and pleasant experience for both of you. If you’ve never ridden before, you might consider taking riding lessons with your child. This way you can share not only the experience, but also the joy of riding on the trail.
If you do elect to take riding lessons, here is some equipment that you and your child will need:
- Riding Helmet
- Riding Boots
- Riding Pants or Comfortable Jeans – something that protects the legs
- Loose cotton top, preferably with sleeves to the elbow
- Cool, comfortable riding gloves
- Bug Spray
We’ll talk more about riding on trails and how you can enjoy it.