Please note, this is a collaborative post.
Are you looking for a new activity for your child to enjoy? If so, then you might want to consider horse riding. This is a popular choice for both young and older children. Here are some things you might consider before booking a lesson.
How dangerous is it?
As a parent, your main concern is always going to be the safety of your child which is why this should be the first thing you ask yourself. Well, horse riding is relatively safe, but there is always going to be a risk that they could fall off the horse. The more they ride, and the more confident they become, the less dangerous horse riding might become, but you are dealing with a large animal with a mind of its own, so the risk is always there, regardless of how skilled a rider is.
To put it in perspective for you though, one report has revealed that horse riding is more dangerous statistically than taking ecstasy.
Can you afford to buy your own?
Another thing you might want to think about is whether you can afford to buy your own horse, or a horse for your child. When you own a horse, they are able to bond with it, love it, take care of it and having a connection makes riding easier and more enjoyable. It is not essential that you buy your own horse for your children to go horse riding, but it might help with their confidence if they can practice of lessons.
It can take quite a while to master horse riding, so learning on a horse you trust is a good idea. If you can afford to buy a horse for your child, then it’s certainly something that is worth doing, but do take professional advice when choosing a horse or pony if you aren’t a rider/owner yourself. But make sure they take some lessons in stable management first too, as owning a horse is about a lot more than just riding.
What equipment will you need?
You definitely need to think about the equipment that you will need for this activity. A lot of the equipment will be provided by the riding school, but there are some things you’ll need to buy your own such as the right footwear. The good news is that you’ll find Bareback Footwear sales prices are relatively low. Many riding schools also require you to use your own hat and a hat that is properly fitted will help protect your child. Some items are a tad more expensive but will be worth it to ensure that your child is safe and looks fantastic.
Will your child enjoy it?
Finally, is your child going to enjoy it? If the answer is no and you’re encouraging them to do it because it’s something you enjoy, then it probably isn’t going to be worth it. But, if you think that it’s something they are going to love, let them experience it.
We hope you have found this article helpful, and now know what questions you should be asking yourself before you take your child horse riding.
