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Intro to Horse Care (4 weeks/$100)–Our entry level class for all new participants, in which students learn the basics of expected behavior and safety around horses, grooming, general horse facts, and leading (no riding at this level). ALL new students begin in this class no matter their previous horse experience, as it gives our team the chance to get to know each child and observe how they interact with the horses, respond to instruction, and work with others in groups and one-on-one settings. The class includes workbook pages in their learning journal, arts and crafts, and games to teach basic skills. They will also learn about topics like horse body language, colors, and parts of the hoof. Each student is paired with at least one volunteer mentor throughout the class.

Stirr-UP!: Beginner Riding Levels 1, 2, 3 (4 weeks/$100)–*Open only to graduates of the 4-week Horse Care class.* The first classes to put kids UP in the saddle! We will practice safe mounting and dismounting, learn about the items of tack our horses are wearing, and use lots of games and exercises to become comfortable, secure, and balanced on the horse’s back. In Level 1 and 2, all leading of the horse is done by a volunteer, with another volunteer beside the child as a spotter if needed. Use of reins is gradually added throughout Level 2. We will also continue to learn more about horse care using our learning journals and practice their groundwork skills. By Level 3 riders may start to guide their horse independently. Classes continue to focus on building relationships through use of conversation starters, games, and crafts as we learn with support from our volunteer mentors.