You are probably wondering what is a good age to begin horseback riding lessons. The age at which your child begins riding can vary depending on the child’s size and maturity.
Toddler on the Horse or Pony
Generally with proper supervision, children can begin riding as young as two or three years old. In order for a child to be safe in a barn, whether riding or on the ground, they need to be able to follow instructions. Some riding schools offer courses for toddlers because the earlier a child is introduced to a horse, the easier it becomes for the child to be comfortable around them. At four years old, most children are able to follow instructions well enough for lessons as long as they have the appropriate attention span.
School-Age Child in the Saddle
Having said that, most horseback riding schools or camps usually cater to children aged six and up. In addition, a six year old is likely to have reached the height to be seated safely on a full-sized horse. Also, the child will have developed a sense of awareness and be able to recognize the potential hazards of working with a large animal. At the age of six, the young rider is also more likely able to focus and easily follow commands.
Love for the Horse or Pony
If your child is already showing an affinity for animals, it’s usually quite easy to pique his or her interest in horseback riding. If you are unsure of the child’s interest, you can watch movies with your child that include horseback riding scenes or read books about horses to help you further gauge his or her interest. Once you are certain that your child would be happy to try horseback riding, you could visit a horseback riding school or camp and enroll him or her for a trial lesson.
Patience, Persistence, Perseverance
If you decide to give horseback riding a try, don’t be disappointed if your youngster does not like riding as much as they anticipated. Frequently, especially with younger children, they are super excited but become nervous when they see how big a horse really is. If this happens with your child, don’t let it concern you. If they remain interested in horses in later years, try riding again. When they are older, he or she will be ready and enthusiastic enough that their excitement overcomes their nerves!
The most important thing to remember is to give your child the best chance possible by placing them in the right program at the right time in order for them to have a positive experience. The first encounter of getting close and personal with a horse stays with us forever. You want that to be a good memory for you and your child!
