Introductory Youth Horseback Riding Programs (ages 8-17)*

Aspiring equestrians are introduced to the world of horseback riding at Sunnyside Equestrian Center. Riders experience the fundamentals of English riding with an emphasis on safety. Sessions of one hour group classes are offered during the winter, spring and fall sessions. One week summer camps are available in July and August. Due to the basic nature of these programs, repeat enrollment is not permitted.

 

Beginner Youth Horseback Riding Programs (ages 8-17)*

Grow your knowledge of horsemanship and English riding to a higher level of independence. Riders must know how to walk, halt, and steer independently. Lessons will focus on safety, balance and control at the walk and trot. Non-mounted skills will be taught throughout the session. Introductory Youth Horseback riding lessons are highly recommended before enrolling in this class. To provide the highest quality lessons space is limited to four students.

 

Adult Horseback Riding Lessons (ages 18 and up)*

Go beyond the casual dude ranch trail ride and learn basic riding skills at the walk and trot. Lessons focus on safety, balance, and control. Non-mounted horse handling skills will be taught throughout the session.

 

Equestrian Experience (ages 7 and up)

Learn the basics of horse care, management and safety. During this one hour and 30 minute class, groups of up to ten participants will have the opportunity to groom and interact with the horses, tour the facility and learn about the programs offered at the equestrian center. The Equestrian Experience is booked by request, through the equestrian center office. For an additional fee, this program may be booked as a birthday party.

 

Disability Awareness (grades 2-5)

This program is designed for children in grades two through five. Participants spend an hour and a half at Sunnyside learning about therapeutic horseback riding and what it might feel like to live with a disability. Disability Awareness classes are offered through the year and are booked by request. Groups must bring three to five chaperones.


Equine Exploration*

Equine Exploration is a fun way to learn more about horses or even earn a scout badge! Classes for individuals are offered throughout the year. Groups may call the equestrian center to book by request.

· Fun with Horses (ages 4-7 with adult)

1 1/2 hour session, maximum 10 participants

Explore the tack room, feed room and stalls at Sunnyside. Learn how to groom a horse and what it means to “tack up.” Children will go for a short ride with the assistance of their parent (No badge available).

· MORE Fun with Horses (ages 4-7 with adult)

1 1/2 hour session, maximum 10 participants

Return to Sunnyside to have MORE fun with horses. Learn how to make a horse’s dinner and how to keep his stall neat and clean. Take a mini riding lesson with the assistance of a parent to learn how to steer, stop and go so you can ride through an obstacle course.

· Horse Fan (ages 8-11)

2 hour session, maximum 10 participants

Participants will learn how to safely interact with horses as well as discover more about different riding disciplines and careers with horses.

Girls Scout participants will earn the Horse Fan badge. 

· Horse Rider (ages 8-11)

2 hour session, maximum 6 participants

Continue learning about horses and riding. Learn about the equipment necessary for riding and its care. Prepare a horse for a riding lesson and participate in a group ride to demonstrate basic safe riding skills.

Girls Scout participants will earn the Horse Rider badge.

· Horse Sense (ages 11-17)

4 hour session, maximum 10 participants

Be horse smart! Explore what it takes to choose the right horse for you. Investigate the equipment you need and the financial responsibilities of owning your own horse. Discover more about equine career options and how to pursue them.

Girls Scout participants will earn the Horse Sense badge.

 

*Availability and enrollment information for this program is available in the Monmouth County Park System

 Activity Directory .

 

Additional programs such as natural hoof trimming, Equine Psychology, Behavior and Communication, Horse Herd Observation, Paint-a-Pony and more are offered throughout the year and can be found on the Monmouth County Park System website or in the Activity Directory displayed at most park areas.

Programs for the Non-disabled Student