The Big Guide to Horseback Riding for Kids in Southwest Michigan

Horseback Riding for Kids

Find Your Horseback Riding Adventure

Horses are gentle animals and riding them can be both fun and educational. Have you been searching for the perfect stable or equestrian center that offers horseback riding for kids as an extracurricular activity?

It doesn’t matter if you’re a horse expert or novice – these stables near Kalamazoo and beyond offer riding experiences, camps, and lessons for all ages and experience levels.

There are several options for horseback riding for kids, plus drop-in trail riding experiences for a unique way to explore the outdoors.

As parents, we can agree that safety is of the utmost importance. Finding the right instructor and place to take riding lessons for kids is paramount to a successful and FUN experience.

Kids riding horses lessons

Horseback Riding in Lawton

72861 28th St, Lawton MI 49065 (269) 501-0529
📧 info@truevineequestrian.org


Providing therapeutic horseback riding, equine companionship and professionally designed riding programs for physical, personal and spiritual growth through weekly lessons, summer clinics, special needs programs, and a variety of volunteer opportunities.


OFFERING: Horse Riding Lessons, English Riding Lessons, Western Riding Lessons, Riding Clinics

AGES: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12

Horseback Riding FAQs

Working with and handling an animal over twice the size of a child is daunting. It is also a huge confidence builder for children. As they work with and build a relationship with this gentle creature, it can and does empower kids to have an â€śI can” attitude.

Ready to get started but don’t know where to start? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions for families ready to start riding lessons for kids:

FAQs

What Age Do Lessons Start?

Depending upon facility, toddlers (aged 2-3) or preschoolers (4+) can start horseback riding for kids.

How Much Do Horse Riding Lessons Cost?

 You can expect about $30 per week for group lessons. Private lessons are $50 or more per session.

What Should We Expect from the First Lesson?

Consider the first lesson your introduction to horseback riding. Staff teach riders some basic horse care and evaluate their current skill level and comfort riding.

Riders typically learn how to groom and tack a horse and how to lead a horse on the ground. They will also spend time riding so the instructors can assess their ability to steer and stop their horses.

What Type of Clothing or Equipment Is Needed?

Riders will need to wear long pants, boots with a heel and riding helmets. 

Note: You may not need to buy special riding equipment. Most facilities have extra boots and helmets for riders to use; contact them before registering to see if your child can borrow equipment (and save yourself the expense!).

What’s the Difference Between Western and English Riding Styles? Which One is Better for My Child?

Western and English riders use different saddles, participate in different horse events, and rein usage is different. As a quick visual check, English riders take a rein in each hand, while Western take both reins in one hand.

Talk to your equestrian center or stable about your child’s interests and riding experience to determine the right style fit.

Horseback Riding for Kids Lessons

Whether you’re looking for an introduction to horses before committing to signing your child up for lessons or simply a fun family day out, here’s a roundup of 10+ spots in SWMI:

Cedar Lodge Stables
47000 52nd St, Lawrence, MI 49064
Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center
8450 N 43rd St, Augusta, MI 49012
Crystal Farms Equestrian Center
15203 C-Drive S, Marshall, MI 49068
Diamond Sahara Equestrian Services, LLC
6700 Moe Rd, Middleville, MI 49333
Eastfork Farms
10392 North 44th St, Augusta, MI, 49012
Every Stride Dressage
13482 S 29th St, Vicksburg, MI 49097
Legacy Stables, LLC
8001 Patterson Ave SE, Caledonia, MI 49316
Lou Don Farm
4115 N 36th St, Galesburg, MI 49053
Model Farm Stables, LLC
67503 38th St, Paw Paw, MI 49079
Pine Meadow Farm
8125 N 42nd St, Augusta, MI 49012
True Vine Equestrian Center
72861 28th St, Lawton, MI 49065

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