At age 10 my parents decided to send me to summer camp, not any summer camp mind you – but one where I would come home everyday stinking to high heaven. I am not sure if they sent me to horseback riding camp because they knew I would love it, or because it would be a great excuse for them to force me to bathe.
Whatever the motivation behind the decision to send me to horseback riding camp, it piqued my interest in horses, horsemanship and equitation.
Twenty years later I have turned that one summer into a life long interest and a modestly paying career.
I could sit here and list all of the virtues of horses and horse sport, but my computer would run out of memory. The fact of the matter is that horseback riding is fun!
Although I only look back with fondness at my first summer at riding camp, I wish that my parents had been a little more educated in what to look for in a summer riding program. Although I emphasize fun when looking at any program, it is important to look for a facility that has quality school horses and certified instruction.
Are the horses:
- At a good weight? (should only be able to see a hint of ribs)
- Friendly?
- Many different shapes and sizes?
Healthy, friendly and safe school horses are a must at any riding facility. At summer riding programs this is extra important. Most new riders start off by attending a summer riding camp and they are just starting to become educated in horse handling and behaviour. There is nothing worse than having a terrifying experience before ever having gotten on a horse in the first place. This is also where the quality of instruction and supervision is of utmost importance.
Are the instructors:
- Ontario Equestrian Federation certified ‘Instructor of beginner’ or higher (Coach I)?
- First Aid and CPR trained?
- Friendly, effective communicators?
Are the counsellors:
- Experienced with horses?
- Friendly and responsible?
Horses are large animals, and one must become familiar with them with the guidance of experienced, patient and friendly instructors, counsellors and staff.
The Equine industry at the moment is coming to a cross road. We are quickly approaching a time when it will be required to have the proper certifications and credentials to teach riding lessons.
Recently, the Ontario Equestrian Federation (OEF) changed its learn to ride program, instructors certification and coaching certification programs to reflect this shifting trend towards formal equine and equestrian education. Finding a summer riding camp that employs OEF certified instructors and coaches ensures that these individuals have achieved a set level of standards and are qualified and capable of teaching safe and effective riding lessons.
Horseback riding camps can sometimes feel like a tough decision because not many parents know the right questions to ask concerning their children’s equestrian education. Write down some questions to ask the prospective camp. Take the time to visit the facility where your children will be spending their time. Observe a lesson or two.
Here is a sample list of questions to ask a prospective horseback riding camp:
- How many horses do you have?
- How many children usually attend your camp program?
- How many counsellors do you employ/how many children are there per counsellor?
- Are all of your counsellors experienced with horses?
- Will there be staff in the barn to help my child tack up/groom/manage his or her horse?
- Are your riding instructors and coaches certified by the OEF or another governing body?
- How many students are in a riding class?
- How much will my child ride each day?
- What other activities do you offer?
About the writer:
Laura Shell works at the York Equestrian Riding School in Stouffville, Ontario.
Tags:
Camp,
children,
day camp,
horse,
horseback riding,
kids,
leadership,
learning,
overnight camp,
riding instruction,
summer camp 
