When your young rider reaches a point in their horse life, it might be time to consider signing them up for a clinic. But before you do, consider these seven tips to ensure that your child is ready and can get the most from your investment.
Test the Waters Online
You’ll find many online learning options, from Ride TV to YouTube videos, that can help you evaluate your child’s interest and attention span. See how long they stay engaged with the lesson, notice if they get distracted easily, and ask what they learned after the session. Videos are also a great way to determine if a clinician you’re considering aligns with your expectations, values, and horsemanship style.
Ask If They Accept Youth Riders
Before you ever sign up, check in with the clinician or the producer of the clinic to see if they’ll allow young riders to participate. Many have age limits or want to know more about your child’s abilities before allowing them to enroll. Additionally, ask about timing for breaks, if they’ll be horseback the entire time, and if other kids are participating.
Prep Your Horse
Get your child’s horse ready as though you were going to a show. Be sure he’s ridden in the days leading up to the clinic—not coming in fresh and snorty. Give him a bath and make him presentable—you never know who will see your horse and say, “I wonder if he’s for sale?” And, most of all, be sure your child’s horse is suited to the clinic. Your child’s barrel horse probably isn’t a good match for an all-around clinic, for example.
Bring a Notebook
I encourage my young riders to write down what they learn. Your child can log their key insights during water breaks and over lunch. If you decide to stay for the clinic, you can take notes, too, and possibly video your child’s instruction for future reference.
Let the Clinician Teach
If you decide to stay and watch the clinic, stay out of the way. You paid money for the clinician to teach your child, so let them. Unless there’s a dangerous or concerning situation, don’t interfere.
Make Gradual Adjustments
Once you get home, don’t completely flip your program to follow what you learned at the clinic. Make gradual changes and adjustments that fit your child and your horse.
—H&R—
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