Children and Horses - Let’s talk about riding lessons!

What is the right age for your child to begin riding lessons? Is it safe for young ones to be around horses? What can children learn from horses that will impact their whole life? We’ll unpack the answers to all these questions today as we explore childhood riding lessons!

How old should your child begin riding lessons?

The answer you’ll see a lot to this question is at least 3. And while I happily give horse rides to our extra young horse enthusiasts, I’ve found the age of 5 and beyond to be a fantastic time to begin riding lessons. They are at a perfect age to begin exploring what they love in a safe environment!

Is it safe?

As a parent, knowing your child is safe will always be a top priority; safety when working with large animals is essential! Always, always have a child wearing a properly fitting helmet. As for being with horses, it should always be done with caution. But when working with a well-trained, calm, and gentle horse, you can have confidence that you are in good hands! I think it is extremely important for children to have lessons about being with horses, whether that is from an instructor, a knowledgeable friend, or a parent!

What can my child learn from it?

The effects of horseback riding for children are amazing and far-lasting! Let’s take a look at all the benefits riding lessons offer to your child!

Physical

In a world of video games and hours of daily internet usage, horses open the door to fun and excitement beyond a rectangular screen. Being with and riding horses is a fantastic exercise that energizes and builds strength. There’s no better way to get your child - no matter the age - to love the outdoors!

Emotional

There is nothing like being with a horse. It calms, soothes, and encourages. If you google ‘emotional benefits of horseback riding’ you’ll find article after article showing the scientific studies of how horses help us. They reduce our stress, calm our nerves, and somehow breathe strength back into us. And isn’t that exactly what our children need today? Through working with horses, you will see your child gain more confidence, and become more responsible and gentle. Horses just bring out the best in all of us!

Mentally

Fears, doubts, stress - children have to deal with so much. Through engaging themselves, physically and mentally with horses, your child can learn to identify, and properly deal with these difficult emotions, not simply shove them aside. They can build a strong, positive mindset and develop problem-solving skills that will come to play a role in all areas of their lives!

Children and horses will always be a beautiful combination when done with safety and in a positive environment! I can say for me personally, it totally changed me, how I saw myself, and what I thought I could accomplish in life. Horses opened the door of opportunity for me and I know they can do the same for your child!

If you are looking for a riding instructor for your child, call me!

And if you have any questions at all feel free to reach out or comment below!

Love Always,

Madison and Dolly