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Step 1
Be absolutely sure that your child WANTS to take the lessons: As an instructor, I see a lot of kids whose parents encourage the children into the lesson, but the child really has no interest. Riding is a fun sport, but it is important to make sure your child is enthusiastic about the experience. It is a waste of time for your child and money for you to try and force them into an experience that they may be afraid of or have no interest in.
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Step 2
Make sure your child arrives to the lesson early or on-time: This goes without saying, but arriving on time the only way to make sure your child gets their entire lesson time!
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Step 3
Make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the lesson: This is VERY important. If your child does not own a suitable riding helmet, you can most likely borrow one from the riding school where the lesson is taking place. After about 3 months, I strongly encourage you to buy your child his or her own helmet. They are not expensive and having a BRAND NEW helmet ensures that if your child should fall from their pony, the new helmet will be crack-free and protect your child's head from injury.
Your child should wear boots with a low-heel. I cannot stress this enough. Shoes with no heel, such as sneakers are NOT SUITABLE for horseback riding. Without the heel, your child's foot can slip through the stirrup completely which becomes a hazard if your child should fall from their pony (they can get their foot stuck).
Your child should also wear long pants. Having any part of your leg exposed is not appropriate and your child can acquire leather burns from rubbing up against the saddle.
In cold weather, take precautions to make sure your child is not going to get too cold. Invest in a pair of cold weather riding gloves for your child. Mittens are not appropriate. Dress your child in layers so that if they get too hot, they can simply take one off. If your child is dressed correctly for the lesson at the start, he or she can spend more time with their pony! -
Step 4
Allow your child some autonomy: This is their time with their instructor, who is most likely, very experienced. I understand that it's very tempting to cheer them on, wave at them, and try to help them during their lesson. However, it is very frustrating for the instructor if he or she is trying to gain back attention from you in order to teach the lesson. Your child is riding an animal that is most likely 8 to 10 times larger than they are and it is important for their safety that they concentrate on the instructor and their pony only. Trust that your child's instructor knows what they are doing and if you would like to observe, please observe quietly. If you have questions or doubts about the ability of the instructor, feel free inquire about their background! Ask them how long they have been teaching/riding etc. It may make you feel more confident about leaving your child with them during their lesson time.
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Step 5
Keep track of their progress: Check in with your child periodically about how they're doing. Ask them if they are having fun and what they are learning, etc. Make sure they are not just getting a glorified pony ride!
