Horse Information for Kids
Children and horses are a magical mix. No child can ignore the lure of a beautiful horse or pony, and there are few things more gratifying than to witness the happy interaction between a horse and a child. There are dangers, however, when you mix large animals and small children. This article will give you some information you can share with children that will educate them about horses and help keep them safe.
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Education
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Before allowing children near horses, there needs to be a basic run-down of rules for safety. These rules must be short, simple and to the point. Things like "no running or screaming in the barn" need to be firmly spoken and asked to be repeated. Move onto the next rule and then go back and ask what was just said. Children will be excited and may not be listening, so it is important to make the rules simple, quick, easy to remember and have them repeated back to you.
Never Go Behind the Horse
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Tell the children to never go behind a horse unless they give it a huge distance of safety. Educate them as to the reason why. Explain that a horse cannot see directly behind them and that a sudden, or even slow, movement behind them can startle them and cause them to kick. Have a horse on hand to show a safe distance from the rear and also show them the size of the horse's foot and how badly it would hurt to be kicked by one.
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No Sudden Movements, Please!
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Children tend to become very active when excited. It is important that they show some restraint when they are around horses. Screaming and flailing children are not safe around horses, even well-trained ones. Again, have a horse on hand to show them the difference between sudden movements and slow, deliberate ones. Showing them the horse's reaction rather than just telling them about it makes a big difference. Children are very visual and need these aids to help remember.
Please Don't Pat My Nose
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Contrary to popular belief, horses do not like having their noses stroked. Their nostrils are intensely sensitive, and a person coming at them with a hand to their nose is the equivalent of a stranger coming towards you and wanting to touch your mouth and face in greeting. Instead, show them the "hello" place for a horse, which is where his neck meets his shoulder. By touching and caressing him there, a person is saying "hello" to a horse in familiar body language. This makes a difference in how the horse receives you.
Shhhh - Not So Loud
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Explain why many famous trainers are called "Horse Whisperers." A horse's hearing is one of its keenest senses. Loud noises are as disturbing to them as fast movements. Once more, have a horse on hand to show the difference between a low tone and a loud yell. The children will see the reaction of the horse and learn how they need to act around the animal to be safe. Tell the children it is OK to be excited or afraid, but try not to scream or yell, as it will only frighten the horse and make it want to run away.
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References
- Photo Credit Courtesy of Boardman Arabians, LLC
