How to Introduce Your Child to Horse Riding

Frequently children decide that they would like to take up horse riding, but for many parents this can be a major headache as they have no personal knowledge of horses and may have absolutely no idea where to start. This article will give some initial ideas of how parents should go about organizing lessons.

The draw to horses can be really strong for children and even though you may have some reservations (cost and safety usually top the bill!) they are unlikely to be put off easily - so you'd be well advised to let them experience - however not all will take to it so don't make any major financial commitments until you're convinced that it is not just a one minute wonder!

For many children, they will be embarking on a lifetime's interest so when a child approaches Mom or Dad with an interest in learning to ride a horse the best advice is to seek out a qualified Instructor, one who is experienced in teaching children horse riding.

Most reputable stables have a lesson program for children ages seven and older. The first concern parents may have is safety. Considering a young child may sit on top an animal weighing in excess of one half ton, safety is a valid concern. Experienced instructors provide a safe working atmosphere including a requirement to wear a safety helmet. And, what children learn from a riding class goes beyond simply learning to ride a horse. They also become more confident overcoming the challenge of learning to ride and develop a love for horses.

A qualified instructor generally starts a young student in a private lesson using a lead line. A lead line is basically a set of reins that allows the instructor to guide the horse from the ground while the student focuses on learning body position. There are many things to learn about proper body position. It is important to sit straight in the saddle with heels down and arms relaxed in front. It is also important to learn what to do with the knees and legs for controlling the horse. Although children may be capable of learning to ride a horse at home, a qualified instructor will be able to pay close attention to these basics and correct mistakes.

Once the child has learned proper body position and has developed a good seat on the horse, it is time to advance to riding without the lead line. The child is completely responsible for controlling the horse. Parents may find this moment a little nerve racking but should feel comfortable in the presence of a good instructor. The instructor would not have let go of the line unless the child was ready. Eventually the child will join a group class.

Group classes are fun and provide an opportunity for kids to meet others with a similar interest. Classes may be a little competitive as each student tries to be better than the others. Children also make good friends with other children who share a love for horses. Beginners who have joined a class and have developed a good body position are also ready to learn faster gaits. The beginner is likely proficient with the walk and will begin learning to ride the horse at a trot. This would include a posting trot where the rider moves up and down in unison with the horse or a sitting trot. Then the final gait, cantering.

Students undertaking lessons will have an opportunity to show what they have learned at the annual show. They may even win a ribbon. Children's horse riding lessons from a qualified instructor will provide them with the best opportunity to learn proper basics and they become better riders. It is a good way to gain confidence, learn to care for animals and enjoy an activity away from the computer and television.

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