Beginner’s Guide to Horseback Riding Lessons
Are you thinking about enrolling your child in horseback riding lessons but aren’t sure where to begin? You’re not alone! At White Fences, we welcome many families who are new to the world of horses — and we love helping them start the journey with confidence. Whether your child is horse-crazy or just curious, horseback riding is a fun, healthy, and rewarding activity. Here’s what every parent should know before that first ride.
Why Horseback Riding?
Horseback riding offers so much more than just a ride — it teaches responsibility, builds confidence, and connects kids with animals in a way few sports can. Plus, riding encourages patience, discipline, and teamwork, all while providing great physical exercise. We see our barn become a second home to many riders. The friendships formed — with both horses and fellow students — are something truly special.
What Age Should Kids Start Riding?
While pony rides can be a fun early experience, most children are ready to begin structured riding lessons around age 7 to 8. At this stage, they typically have the focus, coordination, and maturity to listen to instructions and learn basic horsemanship safely.
English or Western: What’s the Difference?
At White Fences, we specialize in English riding, which focuses on a disciplines called dressage. This style encourages balance, posture, and clear communication between rider and horse. That said, the best style is the one your child enjoys! Many new riders start with English because it offers a strong foundation for various riding paths down the road. While the tack might be different between the two, both can offer a strong foundation.
Choosing the Right Riding School
Here’s what to look for — and what we proudly offer at White Fences:
✅ Certified, Friendly Instructors
✅ Safe, Reliable School Horses
✅ Clean, Welcoming Facilities
✅ Tailored Beginner Programs
✅ A Focus on Fun and Safety
We recommend scheduling a barn visit and observing a lesson. This will give you insight on what to expect and an opportunity to see the school horses in action 🙂 Our team is always happy to answer questions
What to Expect in the First Lessons
The first few lessons are focused on getting comfortable and confident. Your child will learn:
- How to approach and groom a horse
- How to tack up (put on the saddle and bridle)
- Basic riding skills like walking, steering, and stopping
- Safety on and off the horse
Progress happens gradually, and that’s a good thing. We focus on building a solid foundation so your child can enjoy riding for years to come.
What Gear Will My Child Need?
To start, all they really need is:
- Long pants (leggings or jeans work well if you are riding western, but the seams will ruin breeches)
- Closed-toe boots with a heel
- A fitted shirt (nothing too loose or flowy)
White Fences provides helmets for beginners, so there’s no need to buy equipment right away. Once your child is ready to commit, we can help you choose the right gear.
Most barns aim to keep lessons accessible while maintaining the best care for our horses and students. At White Fences, we offer:
- Private and semi-private lessons
- Introductory or an assessment session
- Online scheduling
- Lessons are 45 minutes long
Supporting Your Rider at Home
Becoming a great rider takes time. Your encouragement makes a world of difference! Celebrate progress, be patient with setbacks, and enjoy the journey together. Many parents find themselves falling in love with barn life too!
Why White Fences Equestrian Center?
We’re more than just a riding school or boarding facility — we’re a community. Whether your child dreams of cantering across fields, competing in shows, or simply spending time with horses, we’re here to help them grow with kindness, safety, and joy. If you’re ready to take the reins, we’d love to meet you. Schedule a visit or trial lesson today — your child’s horseback adventure starts here.