Is my child ready to ride?

First, you need to make sure that your child:

Has the DESIRE to ride
Has muscle strength to hold the proper position in the saddle
Has balance to remain on the horse
Has the ability to understand instructions and follow directions
Has sufficient attention span for instructions
Has neck muscles strong enough to support fitted, approved protective head gear.

Second, the horse should be

Suitable for children with a quiet, calm nature
Small enough to allow the child’s legs to be under his/her body, and the foot to be half way down the side of the horse

Third, make sure you have a saddle that:

Find a qualified instructor who:

Has experience and patience to work with children
Has appropriate discipline and control of the program
Teaches in a fashion to allow progressive development o motor skills
Has knowledge of riding skills appropriate for the age of the child
Has a requirement for well-fitted, secured, and approved protective headgear at all time when mounted (ASTM standard SEI-certified helmet)
Knows when a helmet is well fitted
Has facilities with a small closed ring away from motorized traffics, other horse and disruptive activities
Has a successful background of working with children in an equestrian program. Look for certification by a recognized, national organization.