08/03/2025
Get the horse—involve kids in 4-H and animals!! So many life lessons and skills learned! Good luck to all the 4-H kids too! It’s the fair season!
"Wondering if you should get her that pony, wonder no more!
Riding families have always known horses are good for kids, but now research is proving it. One study, sponsored by the American Youth Horse Council, found that equestrian activities do indeed enhance a range of life skills in children.
The study looked at youngsters involved in 4-H, Pony Club, the American Quarter Horse Youth Association, or the National High School Rodeo Association in one eastern and one western state. Results of the study, published in February 2006, found a significant positive relationship between horsemanship skills and life skills.
If your child likes animals and you’re concerned about that child’s problem solving, goal-setting, or decision-making skills, then definitely get him or her involved with horses."
Written by Ann Swinker, Ph.D. - professor in Animal Science at Penn State University and one of the study’s co-authors.
Photo by Larson Performance Horses
