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Horse riding: my child can practice it from 4 years old
A natural bond. Many adults are wary of horses (too big, fearful, unpredictable…) and fear that their children will approach them. To overcome this apprehension, go to a club and observe: most horses are very nice to the little ones. They adapt to their size and are very attentive to them. As for children, with their natural spontaneity, they often approach the horse without apprehension or fear. The animal feels it, hence a deep bond between them. The child quickly integrates the rules of approach and caution towards the animal.
Visit. Another way to familiarize themselves with the horse: a short visit to the Living Horse Museum in Chantilly will allow them to learn about horses. Several rooms familiarize with their history, their use, the way to assemble or care for them, the different equine breeds. At the end of the course, an educational demonstration of dressage will interest young and old. We can also approach the horses in their box.
Shows. Even if you don’t practice horseback riding, you will be amazed. Throughout the year, superb shows feature costumed horses and riders at the Living Horse Museum in Chantilly. Rens. Phone. : 03 44 27 31 80 or http://www.museevivantducheval.fr/. And every year, in January, Avignon becomes the horse capital of the world for the Cheval Passion fair. (http://www.cheval-passion.com/)
A first initiation with the baby pony
In video: Horse riding for children from 4 years old
The baby pony.
Most clubs welcome children from the age of 4 for a first initiation. Some clubs even offer baby pony, from 18 months. In this very particular approach, the child learns above all by mimicry, sign language taking precedence over oral language. He thus integrates the stopping, the advance and imitates in the walk the “stand-sit” of the trot which he then acquires very quickly. From 3 years to 3 and a half years old, he is able to gallop. The toddler learns above all through his sensations, the bodily experience promoting the memory of the right gesture. Contact: French Equestrian Federation: www.ffe.com
One way to make him responsible.
Dress him up, feed him, sweep his cubicle? Taking care of a pony or a horse is a real job that children can participate in very early on, as long as it remains a pleasure. In contact with the animal, the child learns to be gentle and firm at the same time. No question of being led by the tip of the nose by the pony. The budding rider must have authority, learn to be respected, while remaining fair and equitable. Horse riding therefore develops willpower and decision-making. The child learns to act, to guide, in short to dominate his horse. He thus becomes more autonomous and forges a very strong relational bond.
Horse riding: a very complete sport
Multiple advantages. Riding strengthens balance, coordination, lateralization as well as concentration, essential to stay in the saddle and be obeyed. For very toned children, this is a great way to learn to channel their energy. Riding a horse also requires a good control of his emotions. In certain circumstances, you have to overcome your impatience or fear.
The quality of teaching. Riding a horse must remain above all a pleasure, in a reassuring environment for the child. Teachers must be qualified and competent, confident in themselves and not shouting. They should always give beginners docile ponies.
Learning through play. Today, many riding clubs teach the technique through games, which is much less boring for the child (aerobatics, polo, horseball). The emphasis is on complicity and communication with the animal.