Mamas, Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys (or Cowgirls!)
I know few children who have never played a pretend game of “ponies.” And it seems that every year, Hollywood releases yet another fantasy-filled movie starring a majestic horse with a courageous rider by its side. Together they endure hardships then live happily ever after. No one truly understands the attraction people can naturally have to a horse. Perhaps it’s the flowing mane in the breeze or the softness of a muzzle on your arm. Maybe it’s the fact that the magic Hollywood portrays isn’t too far from the truth. I do know one thing for sure! Once you catch the horse bug, you never recover!
The sport of horseback riding (and, yes, it is a sport) provides endless benefits to its participating athlete. Many athletic and physical benefits are present right from the get go. Christine Loneman, a pardner at Faulkner’s Ranch, says, “Riding is a physical activity. Learning to ride requires strength training, flexibility, endurance, balance and coordination. In caring for horses, children learn the value of exercise and proper nutrition.” The hours spent cleaning stalls, hauling water, and even brushing a horse can seem to be quite extraneous, but are so rewarding in the end when you actually do what you are there for…ride!
Important mental benefits are prevalent, as well. Cindy Strahm, Misty Rivers Equestrian Center, says, “Children learn a sense of accomplishment and pride in goals reached as they progress to become accomplished riders and knowledgeable horse people. They also learn to respect their horses and learn consideration for the care and well-being of the horse. All of these and more constitute valuable life lessons that can be of great benefit not only to children of all ages, but adults as well.” There is a certain feeling of maturity and gratification that emerges when taking care of a 1,000-lb. animal. A horse counts on its caretaker 100 percent, and teaching a child horse care management triggers responsibility and commitment.
There are many great ways to introduce your child to horse care and horseback riding. Once your child is excited about meeting a horse, consider taking him to a public horse facility. Many local stables offer beginner lessons. Sunset Trails Stables (Lee’s Summit), Holsman Stables (Kansas City) and Misty Rivers Equestrian Center (Independence) all have areas of their lesson programs which focus on the young beginner rider.
Several factors are important to look for when choosing a lesson facility. The property should be well maintained and clean, horses should look happy and cared for and the riding instructors should be inviting and knowledgeable. Introduce your child to horse care and riding slowly. Don’t make a huge commitment right away. Start with a first contact and good experience. Lead line lessons are an excellent option and are great for boosting confidence. Meet with an instructor; interview him or her about experience, goals and teaching methods.
Your child may think horses are the best thing that’s ever happened to him. Great! Or, your child may decide that riding is not for her. Whatever the case, the experience of working around and riding a horse has huge benefits. Take advantage of what your local boarding and riding lesson facility can offer you this year!
Dana Alley, a lifelong horse lover, enjoys sharing her passion for horses with others through classes and horse shows.