Handling on the ground
Ready when: Parts of the pony and the tack (b1) and Road sense and stable rules (b3) done.
What the coach teaches
Speaking to the pony on the way in; putting on the halter; leading it on the near side; tying up with a quick-release knot; picking out the hooves, keeping the head away from the hoof; grooming in the direction of the hair; washing hands after.
At home, safe only
Tie and pull free the quick-release knot on a chair leg or a fence until it can be done with eyes closed.
Ask the club
Gloves for leading; who checks the knot; which pony is calm for beginners.
What you can see from the side
The rope is never wrapped round the hand.
Self-check what the coach confirms
The child ties the knot and frees it with one pull while the instructor watches.
Stop and get a coach when
The pony kicks, bites or pulls back when tied.
Basic is done when the instructor says the child rides walk and trot in balance and handles a pony safely on the ground, or on the vaulting route when the child kneels up at walk for a count of 10 and jumps off safely.
awiseathlete.com/sports/equestrian/equestrian-b8