Summer camp is a great time to introduce your child to Horseback riding. It is a fantastic activity for all children. It’s tons of fun, teaches children responsibility, and gets kids outside and enjoying nature. Not to mention it is definitely a workout!
A great way to introduce you child to horseback riding is at summer camp. Pick a summer camp that has a skill based horseback riding program that will teach your child how to ride. It can be a horseback riding summer camp or a camp that offers horseback riding as one of the activities.
If the thought of your child riding a 1000 pound animal is terrifying to you, don’t worry, you are not alone!
The most important part of any children’s riding program is safety.
Here are a few points that you, as a parent, should know to ensure your child is safe:
Your child should always wear a helmet when mounted, no excuses. We’re not talking about their first bicycle helmet that is decorated with stickers and glitter glue. The helmet should be specially designed for Equestrian Sports, and must be ASTM/SEI approved. All helmets that are ASTM/SEI approved will have a label on the inside. If the program is supplying the helmets, ask what steps they take to sanitize the helmets. It is recommended by pediatricians that the helmets be sprayed for lice once a week.
Learn more about horse safety at Roughing It.
It is a good idea to choose a program that has a horsemanship component as well. It is important for your child to learn what goes into taking care of horses, and become more comfortable with horses on the ground as well as mounted. Children learn a great deal of reasonability from taking care of horses.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask the riding teacher how long they have been teaching, and what certifications they have. Also, ask what certificates the riding program or barn has. Does the program layout a clear path for your child to move up the levels? Will your child continue to be challenged as they advance in skill?
The Certificated Horsemanship Association provides a clear progression to ensure safety, consistency and appropriate challenges for riders of all levels. Read about Roughing It’s CHA Program.
When choosing a summer riding camp, ask other parents or ask the camp for parent references. Read reviews of the program. Also ask what they will be teaching in the program.
Horseback riding is definitely one of the favorite activities at Roughing It Day Camp. What better way is there to spend a summer, than outside making new friends and learning how to ride horses?
