Most children are ecstatic to learn that their parents have agreed to send them to equestrian summer camp. Visions of galloping across open meadows, following tree-lined trail rides, and vaulting over breath-taking jumps will probably run straight through their imaginations. However, the reality is that much of their time will be well spent learning about grooming, safety, riding equipment, and equestrian apparel long before they ever exertion their more grandiose ideas of horsemanship.
Parents, however, have the more pragmatic job of looking a good barn where a reputable summer camp is being held. For the uninitiated, this can feel like a daunting task. Luckily, there are only three major factors that must be determined to find the best equestrian summer camp for your child this year: location, instruction, and equipment.
Equestrian Sports
Location, Location, Location
You can send your young rider off to a destination camp or find one that is local. Destination camps are excellent for the more mature rider as they will meet many like-minded individuals their own age and be complicated with horses more in-depth than they can be at a local camp.
Local camps have the advantage of a lower cost, and your child spends the night at home. This also means rides must be arranged, so length is a factor to be considered. Most barns are located in rural areas, away from busy streets and distractions, which make them an even best location for a summer camp of any kind.
Interview The Instructor
There are a variety of equestrian instructors out there, all who teach in distinct styles, have a varying volume of students at a time, and abide by distinct riding philosophies. It is leading to find a good match between the rider and the instructor. Instructors should be licensed and insured, and should not mind if you come and watch them work. It is usually easy to see what type of interactions occur between the educator and their students. If everyone appears comfortable and confident, that's a good sign.
As you visit with the instructor, be sure to ask how many riders will be in each class and if there will be assistants available to help. Take a close look at the property while you are there as well. Trash, damaged equipment, discarded equestrian apparel, and old feed should never be in sight. Also check to be sure that the barn rules and emergency policies are posted clearly.
Equestrian Apparel And Ring Equipment
This is the most leading aspect of any riding situation. Poorly maintained equipment indicates a poor attitude and perilous circumstances. interpret what equipment is in case,granted by the barn and what riding apparel must be in case,granted by you. Spend a few minutes in the tack room and look to see that the equipment is clean and well maintained. A broken girth or rotted reins can be devastating.
As the parent, it is up to you to ensure that your child is wearing the thorough equestrian apparel. The first description of equestrian apparel needed is an Astm/Sei popular ,favorite helmet. Some barns will contribute this crucial piece of equestrian apparel, and others will want that you purchase or rent your own. If a barn does not want students to wear an popular ,favorite helmet at all times, find an additional one barn.
Nearly any sort of shirt will do, so long as it is not baggy. Most young riders prefer dressing the part in popular ,favorite shirts that contribute extra cooling effects to counteract the summer heat. Of course, they will want to top off their outfit with a pair of matching socks under their new riding boots.
Riding boots or paddock boots are preferable to any other type of footwear. Even hard-soled shoes are not designed to keep a foot safely located in the stirrups. an additional one basic item on the list is riding pants, known as breeches or jodhpurs. They come in any styles: full seat, knee patch, pull-on, front zip, side zip, and more. Riding tights contribute great experience with the horse while protecting sensitive skin from chafing.
Taking the time to find the best barn and the best educator is half of what it takes to originate marvelous summer memories for your child. Ensuring that they will be riding with equipment that is safe and sound and in equestrian apparel that allows them to look and feel their best will be all you need to do to relax, knowing that your child is going to have the best summer ever!
How to make your mind up the Best Equestrian Summer Camp For Your Child
