Horse Safety for Kids

A childhood spent with horses is a childhood spent learning responsibility. Bonding with horses is more than barn chores and riding lessons. It is a time for kids to build a trusting partnership with the horse. Like a child, if a horse does not trust and respect, it will not obey. It is impossible to eliminate all risks, but educating children on horse safety greatly reduces the possibility of injury.

  1. Ground Safety

    • A child, no matter the age, needs to speak to a horse upon approach. This alerts the horse to the fact that someone is nearing him and prevents provocation of his startle reflex. A horse cannot see directly in front of or behind him, so avoiding blind spots is vital. Children should always approach the horse's side, touching his neck or shoulder first. Teach children to stay calm, focused and alert at all times. Children can have fun, but cannot be careless or irresponsible around horses.

    Leading

    • Leading a horse requires a lead rope. Children should never learn to lead a horse simply wearing a halter. Grasping only the halter allows no options if the horse would startle. The lead rope attaches to the horse's halter and is held folded in the hand. Teach children never to wrap a lead rope around any body part, including the hand, wrist and waist.

    Tying

    • Learning to tie a horse securely is one of the most important safety lessons children can learn. The tie knot should be at least as high as the horse's eye and the distance from knot to halter no longer than the length of an adult's arm. Teach a child how to tie either a quick-release or a breakaway knot and supervise his work.

    Feeding

    • Feed carrots or apple chunks from the palm of a flattened hand to prevent accidental finger biting. The safest way a child can feed a horse is by putting food or treats inside a bucket. Teach children to avoid a horse's mouth unless under the close eye of a responsible adult.

    Mounting

    • Children should never mount a horse under low overhead clearances or projections. Have an adult hold the horse as the child swings her leg over the horse and continue holding until the child is safely, securely and comfortably in the saddle seat.

    In the Saddle

    • Until skills are well established, have children ride with adult supervision. Safety essentials include hard-toed boots and a properly fitted Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) approved helmet. Breakaway stirrups release the foot easily in the event of a fall and are a wise choice for children learning to ride.