1. Gets children active

You might not realise it but horse riding besides being fun, is also a form of exercise. Horse riding is a great way for children to get some fresh air and to fit some exercise into their day in a fun way.

British Show Pony Society judge, Fiona Dymond

2. Increases well-being

Older children who take up a new sport or hobby have a much lower chance of continuing that new pursuit into adulthood.  The long-lasting positive effects of having a long-enjoyed pastime include equipping one with the ability to take time out from daily stresses.

3. Helps make new friends

Increasing time spent on digital pastimes means that children are spending more time alone than ever before. Getting a child into new situations and environments is a great way to help children, particularly quieter children, to make friends.

 “The friendships gained within riding disciplines are often life long, and it can be beneficial that children have different sets of friends to only their school friends.”

 - Show rider Natalie Reynolds

4. Empowering

Learning to care for an animal that’s much bigger than them is hugely confidence boosting to children, especially girls. Indeed it's been proven that learning to command an animal so much bigger than them helps to develop girls' leadership skills which will benefit them hugely in later life. 

5. Instills valuable life lessons

There’s no doubt about it, horse riding is fun - but it is also hard work. Grooming and mucking out stables can take a lot of time.  Horse and pony riding and care also encourages empathy, patience and kindness.

 6. Responsibility

Spending time around horses teaches kids lots about respect and discipline.  Riding a horse requires a commitment to both respect and behave responsibly towards the animal at all times – qualities which will be of huge benefit to the child as they make their way towards adulthood.

Lottie MD Ian Harkin at the Childvision Centre in March 2018

7. Equine Therapy

Did you know that horses can be hugely therapeutic to children with conditions such as autism, Asperger’s and ADHD among many others?  Earlier this year, Lottie dolls partnered with Ireland’s oldest equine therapy centre, Childvision, in Dublin, Ireland to launch a gifting drive to promote the value of such therapies. 

8. It’s fun!

Childhood is an exciting time, full of adventure and imagination so learning to ride and ‘playing ponies’ with toy horses can only add to the enjoyment! Check out our Lottie Stables which is made from real wood and contains remarkable attention to detail.

The Lottie, Finn & Friends range has something for everyone!