Go Horseback Riding
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Go horseback riding at a supervised stable, wearing a helmet; learn grooming, mounting, and safe riding techniques while observing horse behavior and following an instructor.

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Step-by-step guide to go horseback riding

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How To Draw A Horse (for kids)

What you need
Adult supervision required, closed-toe shoes or riding boots, grooming kit (curry comb brush hoof pick towel), helmet, long pants, water bottle

Step 1

Put on your helmet and fasten the chin strap so it fits snugly.

Step 2

Put on closed-toe shoes or riding boots.

Step 3

Put on long pants to protect your legs while riding.

Step 4

Arrive at the supervised stable and check in with the instructor.

Step 5

Listen to the instructor's safety briefing and follow their instructions.

Step 6

Approach your assigned horse slowly and calmly.

Step 7

Observe the horse's behavior from a safe distance to see how it is feeling.

Step 8

Ask the instructor to show you which grooming tool to use.

Step 9

Brush the horse's coat as the instructor demonstrated.

Step 10

Ask the instructor to help fit and check the saddle and bridle.

Step 11

Mount the horse with the instructor's help.

Step 12

Walk the horse while holding the reins correctly as the instructor directs.

Step 13

Dismount safely when the instructor tells you and groom the horse to say thank you.

Step 14

Share your horseback riding photo or story and what you learned on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can we use if we don’t have a riding helmet at home?

If you don't have a riding helmet, ask the supervised stable to rent a certified riding helmet or, only with the instructor's approval, use a snug bike helmet and be sure to fasten the chin strap before mounting.

What should we do if the child can't get on the horse or the horse moves while mounting?

If mounting is difficult, ask the instructor to steady the horse, use a mounting block, and confirm the instructor has checked the saddle and bridle and adjusted stirrup length before trying again.

How can we adapt the activity for younger or older children?

For younger children have the instructor or parent lead the horse while the child practices brushing with long pants and closed-toe shoes, and for older children let them mount with instructor help and practice holding the reins and walking the horse as directed.

How can we extend or personalize the horseback riding activity after the lesson?

To extend the activity, keep a small stable journal noting the horse's name, which grooming tool and brush you used, take a horseback riding photo after grooming, and share the photo and what you learned on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to go horseback riding

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

How To Draw A Horse - Preschool

4 Videos

Facts about horseback riding and horse care

🧽 Grooming isn’t just cleaning — brushing your horse removes dirt, helps spot cuts or swelling, and builds trust between you and the horse.

🐴 Horses can sleep both standing up and lying down — they use a special “stay” mechanism in their legs to nap while standing.

👂 Horses communicate with their ears, eyes and tail — watching those signals helps riders understand how the horse is feeling and stay safe.

🪖 Riding helmets are made to absorb impact and many stables require them for kids to help reduce the chance of serious head injuries.

🏇 Some racehorses can sprint over 40 mph in short bursts, but safe riding at a stable is usually much slower and controlled.

How do I take my child horseback riding at a supervised stable?

Start by booking a lesson or trail ride with a reputable stable that offers supervised sessions. Arrive early to meet the instructor, put on a properly fitted riding helmet, and learn basic grooming and tack checks. Practice mounting and dismounting with instructor help, follow commands for walk and stop, and observe the horse’s body language. Stay with the group, ask questions, and always follow the instructor’s safety directions throughout the session.

What materials and equipment are needed for a child to go horseback riding?

Essential items include a certified riding helmet (often provided by stables), sturdy closed-toe boots with a small heel, long pants, and gloves. A fitted safety vest is recommended for beginners. Bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and hair ties for long hair. The stable typically supplies saddles, bridles, and grooming tools, but call ahead to confirm what they provide and whether you should bring a specific helmet or footwear.

What ages are suitable for children to start horseback riding?

Many stables offer lead-line rides for children as young as 3–5 years, where a handler leads the horse. Independent beginner lessons commonly start around ages 6–8, depending on a child’s size, coordination, and ability to follow instructions. Stables also set weight and safety limits, so check with the facility. Ultimately readiness is individual: a child who listens, follows directions, and shows interest is usually ready to begin supervised riding.

What are the benefits and key safety tips for children who go horseback riding?

Riding builds balance, core strength, coordination, confidence, and empathy through caring for the horse. To stay safe, always wear a certified helmet, follow the instructor’s directions, avoid sudden movements, and stay calm around the animal. Beginners should start on lead-line or in a lesson with a qualified instructor, learn to read basic horse body language, and use appropriate footwear and safety vests when recommended. Hydrate and limit session length for young riders.
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Go Horseback Riding. Activities for Kids.