Is your child ready to accompany you on the trail? Start by outfitting your child in an American Society of Testing Materials-approved, Safety Equipment Institute-certified riding helmet and smooth-soled riding boots.

To be safe on the trail, your child will need to observe how fast other horses and riders are moving. He or she will also need to know how to flow with a group on trail, how to stop a horse completely, and move ahead on cue. Here’s how to help teach these skills.

Start in an enclosed arena with good footing. Mount your child on a trusted, friendly, trail-savvy pony or horse. Mount up yourself, and play “Follow the Leader.” Ask your child to follow you around the arena, keeping two horse lengths away. Stay away from the rail, and create fun twists and turns. Make frequent stops and starts. Help your child maintain the proper distance while actively looking ahead — a necessary on-trail skill. 

Tip: When you’re ready for your first family trail ride, find a trail close to home, and limit your riding time to an hour or less to avoid overtiring your child. Gradually build up time as he or she builds strength and patience.