stable start program
A safe, structured introduction to horses for young riders—building confidence from the ground up.Stable Start: Beginner horseback riding for kids in windsor, co
Stable Start is NOCO Equine’s beginner horseback riding program for kids, thoughtfully designed to introduce young riders to horses in a safe, confidence-building, and age-appropriate way.
The program is offered in two separate sections based on age, Stable Start: First Rides (ages 5-8) and Stable Start: Riding Foundations (ages 9-12), allowing riders to learn alongside peers at a similar developmental and learning stage. Both sections follow the same core philosophy—confidence first, safety always—while adjusting structure, pace, and expectations to best support each age group.
Each 4-week session focuses on building foundational horsemanship skills, horse safety awareness, and positive first riding experiences in a calm, supportive environment. At the end of the session, if there’s enough interest, riders may have the opportunity to continue on in a new session with their peers.
Two age based sections:
Stable Start: First Rides (Ages 5-8)
WHO THIS PROGRAM IS FOR
- Ages: 5–8
- Skill Level: Beginner riders
- Experience: No prior horse experience required
Stable Start is ideal for young riders with no prior horse experience that are ready to learn in a structured, safety-first setting.
WHAT TO EXPECT EACH WEEK
Each weekly, 75-minute class is divided into:
- Horsemanship Activities: Children learn the basics of horse care and safety through hands-on activities, including grooming, understanding horse behavior, and barn etiquette.
- Ride & Learn Rotation: Every child rides each week. Two riders are in the saddle at a time to allow for focused instruction and safety, while the remaining students participate in supervised, age-appropriate ground activities. Riders rotate so everyone gets equal riding time.
PROGRAM FOCUS
- Safe interaction with horses
- Confidence building on the ground and in the saddle
- Assisted riding at the walk
- Listening skills, responsibility, and barn manners
- Positive, encouraging instruction
Stable Start: Riding Foundations (Ages 9-12)
PROGRAM FOCUS
Stable Start is designed to create strong foundations while honoring that first-time riders may still need hands-on support. This program focuses on:
- Confidence in and around horses, both on the ground and in the saddle
- Safety awareness and responsibility, including safe handling and riding habits
- Foundational riding skills, such as balance, steering, stopping, and basic position
- Developing independence, while still offering support when needed
- Positive first riding experiences, setting the stage for future growth
This is not a fast-paced riding program — it’s a thoughtful, supportive introduction that meets riders where they are and allows skills to develop naturally.
WHO THIS PROGRAM IS FOR
- Beginner riders ages 9-12
- Children who are new to horses or have very limited riding experience
- Riders who benefit from a small group setting and a calm, supportive learning environment
- Kids who may feel nervous or unsure but are ready to try riding with guidance and encouragement
- Families looking for a safe, structured introduction before committing to private lessons
Stable Start: Riding Foundations is ideal for riders who are ready to learn at a steady pace, build confidence, and develop strong foundational skills — with support on the ground as needed.
This program is NOT intended for riders who are already trotting independently or seeking advanced instruction.
WHAT TO EXPECT EACH WEEK
Each Stable Start session follows a consistent, supportive structure designed to help older beginner riders feel confident, capable, and successful.
- Hands-on horsemanship: grooming, tacking basics, safety skills, and understanding horse behavior
- Mounted riding time every week, with close instructor supervision and ground support as needed
- Small-group instruction (typically 2 riders), allowing for individualized attention and a calm learning environment
- Clear routines and expectations, helping riders build independence and confidence over time
Lessons progress at an age-appropriate pace, allowing riders to gain comfort and skill without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
PROGRAM FOCUS
Stable Start is designed to create strong foundations while honoring that first-time riders may still need hands-on support. This program focuses on:
- Confidence in and around horses, both on the ground and in the saddle
- Safety awareness and responsibility, including safe handling and riding habits
- Foundational riding skills, such as balance, steering, stopping, and basic position
- Developing independence, while still offering support when needed
- Positive first riding experiences, setting the stage for future growth
This is not a fast-paced riding program — it’s a thoughtful, supportive introduction that meets riders where they are and allows skills to develop naturally.
Upcoming Sessions
Spots are limited to maintain small group sizes. Register today using the link(s) below! Check back for upcoming sessions.
Stable Start: First rides (ages 5-8)
winter 2026
Winter 2026 Session Dates:
Wednesdays 3:30-4:45
February 4, 11, 18, and 25, 2026
SOLD OUT!!!
stable start: riding foundations (ages 9-12) winter 2026
Winter 2026 Session Dates:
Wednesdays 5:00-6:00
February 4, 11, 18, and 25, 2026
$260/student
Spring 2026
Spring 2026 Session Dates:
coming soon!
Safety First
Safety is our top priority. Stable Start is taught by experienced instructors using carefully selected lesson horses. Small group sizes ensure close supervision and individualized attention at all times.
Progression & Next Steps
Riders progress based on confidence, coordination, and readiness—not age alone. Stable Start prepares riders to move into future programs or private lessons as skills develop. As a stand alone program, it is an ideal starting place to determine if horseback riding lessons are a good fit for you and your family.
At the end of the session, there are a few options for riders:
1. Repeat their current program: this is encouraged for riders who benefit from additional practice and confidence building.
2. Continue on in a new session with their peers: if there is enough interest and students are eager to learn, the same group can opt to add on another 4-week session to continue furthering their skills.
3. Transition to private riding lessons (depending on availability)
4. Tuck away their skills and save them for a later time in life when they’re ready to continue riding.
what to wear & bring
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Long pants
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Closed-toe shoes
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Water bottle
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Properly fitted ASTM/SEI-approved riding helmet – we have a limited number of helmets available. Please confirm availability if you need to reserve one for class.
- Dress for the weather! This program is entirely outside. While we can get out of the wind and direct sun, we can’t get out of the cold in the winter or heat in the summer. Coats, gloves, and hats are all recommended in the winter. Sun hats, sunscreen and lightweight clothes are recommended in the summer.
Weather & Cancellations:
Colorado weather is wild and often unpredictable. In general, class will be canceled due to storms (blizzards, thunderstorms, etc), extreme heat or cold, or big wind events. In the event of severe weather or unsafe conditions, classes may be rescheduled. A designated make-up date is reserved for each session.
