Child 1 Age 10 (Female)
Program(s) focused in Horseback Riding/Equestrian
(5) Overall experience
She has always been very interested in horses but this was her first experience with them, so she was a bit nervous. Now she can hardly wait for summer camp to come around again! She has tried other sports but they never really 'took' but the partnership with a horse captured her imagination. It's also had a great side effect in that it's prompted her to read more, which has always been a struggle for her over the years.
(5) Reason for choosing the camp
We have extended family in the area so it was a perfect fit for a summer activity. We also liked its proximity to downtown Peterborough, unlike some other stables, so we could enjoy other cultural activities. The experience was well worth the investment and there were no extra costs.
(5) Program quality and activities
She loved that she learned not just how to ride but also how to care for and get her horse ready for the ride. There was always plenty of support at hand to assist and answer any questions. The group games were also a big hit! We have all been entertained by her recounting her adventures and the stories about her new friends.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
She is rather shy and didn't know any of the other campers, so she was a bit nervous on day one. That changed pretty quickly as she got to know the other horse nuts there, and the group activities helped everyone integrate pretty quickly. The coaches seemed to ensure that everyone was involved, but gave space for kids to warm up to things as well.
(5) Skills and growth
Horse camp helped her become more confident. She now wants to take more lessons to advance her riding skills. No one else in the family rides so she was an absolute beginner last year. She can't stop talking about the different horses she met and the craft activities, as well. It seems like she could see her progress in only one week so it was a very positive experience.
(5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
The coaches were so positive, welcoming, friendly, and competent that I could tell from the beginning we had made the right choice! From what we could tell, all of them had lots of experience with both horses and children (and group dynamics) and could juggle kids at different skill and comfort levels.
(5) Advice and tips
None really, aside from normal summertime activity preparation. Sending them along with enough water for a hot day, perhaps a hoody or rain gear if the weather is sketchy is a good plan. Also, it is a barn, so proper footwear is essential! Closed-toe shoes and not sandals or flip-flops! A hat with a brim, sunscreen, and maybe mosquito repellent are great ideas.
Excellent program run by great people! One of my kids started with camp and has become very engaged in riding ever since. The other did not continue but loved getting to try riding and being at the ba...
My daughter (now 9), started going to Kildare Riding Camps in the summer when she was 6, and she looks forward to it as being a part of her summer every year since. We try to register for as many week...
Riding camps at Kildare Stables are great for all ages from never-been-on-a-horse-before to the experienced rider preparing for local shows. Off-horse activities are fun and the coaches and staff are ...
