How to Keep Your Youngster Safe During Riding Lessons

The Old Gray Mare has been around horses forever. For goodness sakes, the Mare is a sage when it comes to horses.

Yet with all that knowledge comes the realization there is always an element of danger involved in working and being around a horse '" a large animal living, breathing and often acting on instinct. So she frets when the little humans are near or astride a horse. She very much wants safety first, and then the discovery and love of all things horse.

First '" Obtain basic riding gear

Of course, your child is just starting out so it makes no sense to gear up as though you were heading to the World Championships. There are a few items, however, which you should purchase, even for the first riding lesson. It is important to invest in a properly-fitting riding helmet of good quality. Some riding stables will lend the child a helmet but, in my experience, your child will be safer with her own '" one that fits well and is available each time she rides. You should also purchase a pair of riding boots; don't even consider any other footwear (and absolutely no sneakers!).

It is not necessary to buy riding breeches or riding attire. Just dress your youngster in long pants such as jeans and a comfortable, loose fitting top. You may want to start with riding gloves from the very beginning but it certainly is not necessary.

If the lesson is English style (hunt, jump, saddle seat), you might also consider the purchase of safety stirrups or regular stirrups. In this way the riding instructor adjusts proper length of stirrups to your child's legs and, thereafter, the stirrups are already at the correct length for subsequent lessons.

Second '" Watch your child ride

It is a wise decision to watch all lessons. Observe the horse, your child and the instructor '" also watch how the instructor works with your child. If more than one child is riding, stay at the fence and watch everyone. You will soon observe mannerisms, attention, reactions, interactions '" see how well your child follows instructions. Does the instructor watch alertly; is your child's mount "too much horse" '" if you have any concerns, discuss them immediately with the instructor.

Third '" Familiarize yourself with horses

For your child's sake and your own, read up a little about horses. Knowing the basics of riding and rudimentary knowledge of horses will not only support your horse loving child, but will go a long way toward your own appreciation of the riding sport. After all, you'd learn about soccer or football or baseball, too. Knowledge is always a good thing especially if safety is involved. Additionally, you will recognize lapses of judgment or possible dangers such as open gates, too much activity outside of the riding area, slippery ground and so on.

Fourth '" Is your child happy with riding and the instructor

Each child learns differently and some are just quicker to sit strait, legs tight, heels down, head up, eyes straight, soft hands, take the slack out of the reins '" Is your youngster happy with her progress; does she love going for her riding lessons; does she like and respect the instructor; does she feel there is too much pushing before she's ready; does she enjoy riding; does she feel safe, is she committed to learning to ride?

Fifth '" Network with other parents of riders

It is always a good idea to talk to other parents or the riders themselves. Do the kids progress well? Have there been any safety issues or accidents? Do any of the horses act up? Does the instructor pay close attention; pick up cell phone calls? Many other questions come to mind and you will be guided by the situation.

Sixth '" Are the horses fit, sound and happy

The overall care, cleanliness and maintenance of the stable are good indicators of possible safety issues. You know, doors not locked means a horse could bolt out and run into or over someone. The fences may not be in good repair and if the horse brushes against it -- well, you get it. If the horses are treated well, are groomed and in good condition, the stable cares for their animals. In a well-run stable, tack and riding ring are also well maintained. Attention to detail goes a long way to following through on safety.

Horseback riding presents an element of danger. As all things in life, we accept those inherent dangers in order to grow, learn and flourish. Certainly you can fall off a horse and possibly get hurt but you can also take a serious tumble in basketball and strain or break an arm. So you learn and watch and take care and support. Put all your attention to your child's riding; encourage, praise, provide constructive criticism, take videos, laugh, and above all, enjoy.

Your child is working hard and you will help her keep that focus. Perhaps she will keep that lifelong love of horse and riding; you will help keep her safe.

This article is written by The Old Gray Mare of www.DressYourHorse.com, www.FantasyKritters.com, www.TShirtsbyLily, and www.Amway.com/healthandhomebyheidi