Preschool PonyPals Ponyship Program
in Molino, Florida serving North Escambia County

What is the Preschool PonyPals Ponyship Program?
PonyPals came about after parents desired teaching their children early in life that they can be safe and have fun on a pony. Many parents realize the benefits of getting their children involved with horses - it is great physical exercise plus it's fun. The PonyPals Program gets kids outdoors in the fresh air and in tune with nature. Taking care of a horse teaches kids responsibility - learning how to
properly care and feed an animal prepares the child for caring for others. Horseback riding can also be a great social sport. Many shy children learn communication skills through their equine friend.

Today's child has many stresses, such as divorced parent issues, low self esteem, feeling's of outcast, being bullied...the children of today have a variety of stresses and it is a well known fact that Horses are a great source of comfort. They just have a way of making us feel good. There are countless stories on how horses have helped troubled children. Many times horses have had a life changing impact on children. In addition to physical exercise and emotional therapy, horseback riding has other great side benefits. Riding improves balance, coordination, and reaction time. As a child progresses in their riding and interacting with the horse, they develop thinking and rationalization skills, confidence, a sense of freedom, as well as personal achievement and accomplishment. They also develop a friendship with a bond and trust like no other.

The Program
The Balanced Equestrian offers a Horsemanship, or in this case, a Pony-kid-ship lesson program for Preschool through 7 year old boys and girls which will introduce them to the joys and rewards of Horsemanship and Equitation (balanced proper riding).  The child will be paired with a pony, not a big 1,000 pound horse that may intimidate or frighten. 'Their' pony is perfectly proportioned to match their size, making them comfortable, releasing any fear they may have. Also having a pony makes it easier for them to handle - during each lesson, the child will practice haltering, leading, grooming, and help tack their pony.  ASTM/SEI approved helmets are provided, or you may provide your own.

The Natural Pony-kid-ship curriculum will cover safely approaching and moving around ponies, how to communicate with ponies both on the ground and mounted, ponies' emotional issues and how-to topics such as parts of the ponies body, various colors and markings - all of which will be on taught on a level the child is sure to comprehend. The Equitation curriculum will cover, but not limited to, grooming, mounting and dismounting, the basic balanced seat, posture, control of the pony to start, stop and steer at the walk, circles, whoa-ga (aka yoga) exercises on horseback, basic hand positions and natural aids.

We require a parent or guardian to remain on the premises during the lesson. You are welcome to bring a camera and friends/family may come watch if desired.

This class is designed to be a continuing class upon which your child will build their equine/equestrian skills but it can be taken as a one time fun event for you and your child.