🌼 Teaching Tips for Kids or Beginners
- “Soft hands, quiet feet” helps them remember to move gently.
- Practice the motions on a mounting block before trying with a horse.
- Remind them to never stand directly behind a horse.
- A helper holding the horse is ideal for new riders.
🐴 How to Tack Up a Horse
A quiet, step‑by‑step guide for beginners
1. 🪒Start with a Clean Horse
- Brush the horse’s back, belly, and girth area so nothing rubs.
- Check for bumps, cuts, or tender spots.
- A clean horse = a comfortable ride.
2. Put On the Saddle Pad
- Stand on the horse’s left side.
- Place the pad slightly forward, then slide it gently back into place.
- This smooths the hair and helps prevent rubbing.
3. Place the Saddle
- Lift the saddle and set it softly on top of the pad.
- Make sure it sits evenly and not too far forward.
- Smooth the pad so nothing is wrinkled underneath.
4. Fasten the Girth or Cinch
- Walk to the horse’s right side and pull the girth down.
- Return to the left side and buckle it gently.
- Tighten it a little at a time—snug but not harsh.
- Let the horse breathe and relax before tightening again.
5. Put On the Bridle
(Move slowly and kindly—this part feels personal to the horse.)
- Slip the reins over the horse’s neck.
- Remove the halter but keep it around the neck like a loose collar.
- Guide the bit toward the horse’s mouth—never force it.
- Lift the bridle over the ears one at a time.
- Buckle the throatlatch and noseband so they’re secure but not tight.
6. Final Checks
- Make sure the pad is straight, the girth is snug, and the bridle is comfortable.
- Walk the horse a few steps and recheck the girth.
- Everything should feel calm, smooth, and steady.
🐴 Mounting a Horse
(Simple, safe steps for beginners)
1. Prepare the Horse
- Make sure the girth or cinch is snug so the saddle won’t slip.
- Stand by the horse’s left side (the traditional mounting side).
- Hold the reins gently, keeping the horse still without pulling.
2. Position Yourself
- Face the horse’s side.
- Place your left foot in the stirrup.
- Keep your right hand on the saddle for balance.
3. Mount Smoothly
- Push off the ground with your right leg.
- Swing your right leg over the horse’s back carefully.
- Sit down softly in the saddle.
- Put your right foot in the stirrup.
- Sit tall and relaxed.
🐎Dismounting a Horse
(Calm, controlled, and safe)
1. 👆🏼Prepare to Get Off
- Bring the horse to a complete stop.
- Take your feet out of both stirrups.
- Lean slightly forward.
2. 👇🏼Swing Down
- Swing your right leg back over the horse.
- Keep your hands on the saddle for balance.
- Lower yourself gently to the ground—don’t jump hard.
By Bell
