POWAY HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Poway’s First Saddles: Gentle Horsemanship for Preschoolers
A 30‑minute Little Riders lesson that introduces children ages 3–5 to horses through meet‑and‑greet, grooming, simple groundwork and a short guided ride—this guide tells you what to expect and how to prepare.
Poway’s First Saddles: Gentle Horsemanship for Preschoolers.
On a small Poway ranch, Little Riders lessons introduce preschoolers to horses through patient, age‑appropriate activities. Sessions move at a child’s pace, pairing hands‑on grooming and basic groundwork with a short guided ride to build trust, balance and confidence in a safe, supportive setting.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A gentle introduction to natural horsemanship
Lessons are designed to introduce very young children to horses through gentle activities that teach approach, communication and partnership — all tailored to the child’s comfort and ability.
Hands‑on grooming and groundwork
Each session includes brushing and petting to build trust, plus simple leading and communication skills that lay the foundation for respectful horsemanship.
Short guided rides focused on balance and fun
Ride time is brief and guided, emphasizing balance and confidence in the saddle while instructors adapt the pace and activities to each child’s needs.
What the day feels like
What the lesson feels like
The session unfolds as a calm, playful routine: a meet‑and‑greet to teach safe approach, grooming to build connection, simple groundwork to introduce communication, and a short guided ride that celebrates small successes. Instructors keep activities light and encouraging so each child leaves smiling and more confident around horses.
THE HORSES
A gentle introduction to natural horsemanship
Lessons are designed to introduce very young children to horses through gentle activities that teach approach, communication and partnership — all tailored to the child’s comfort and ability.
THE LESSON
Hands‑on grooming and groundwork
Each session includes brushing and petting to build trust, plus simple leading and communication skills that lay the foundation for respectful horsemanship.
THE RIDE
Short guided rides focused on balance and fun
Ride time is brief and guided, emphasizing balance and confidence in the saddle while instructors adapt the pace and activities to each child’s needs.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this lesson works best for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Lessons run 30 minutes; the meeting location is 14875 Mina De Oro Rd. Arrive early to check in and get settled.
Closed‑toe shoes or boots with a small heel (no sandals or sneakers), long pants or leggings (no shorts), weather‑appropriate clothing, a water bottle and sunscreen; helmets are provided.
Lessons may be cancelled or rescheduled for high heat (temperatures at or above 89–90°F), excessive wind, rain, or poor footing; the operator monitors conditions and will notify guests if adjustments are necessary.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for check‑in; a parent or guardian must remain on‑site. The facility does not allow pets, smoking, drugs, or alcohol.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What should my child wear to the lesson?
Closed‑toe shoes or boots (no sandals or sneakers), long pants or leggings, and weather‑appropriate clothing; helmets are provided.
Can I stay with my child during the lesson?
Yes; a parent or guardian must remain on‑site during the lesson.
Are these lessons suitable for a child who has never been on a horse before?
Yes; Little Riders lessons are designed for beginners and are modified for each child’s comfort and skill level.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Lessons may be rescheduled or cancelled for high heat, excessive wind, rain, cold, or poor footing; the operator will notify you by 8 AM on the day of the lesson when possible.
Can we bring pets or food?
No — outside pets are not permitted on the property, and snacks are not provided; bring a water bottle and sunscreen instead.
Can we just show up without an appointment?
No; lessons are by appointment only due to limited capacity and walk‑ins are not accepted.
Can my child interact with other horses on the property?
For safety, children should only interact with the horse assigned for their lesson; this is a private boarding facility.
How do I cancel or reschedule a lesson?
Cancellations or reschedules must be done in advance; please refer to the operator’s cancellation policy for specifics.
What’s included in the lesson?
Helmets, grooming tools, all riding equipment, one‑on‑one instruction, and access to the arena are included.