Frequently Asked Questions
Is my child behind if they aren’t trotting yet?
No. Every child develops at their own pace. Early dressage focuses on balance, posture, and communication with the horse. Spending extra time at the walk builds a strong foundation that makes trotting and cantering safer and easier later.
Why does dressage look slower than other programs?
Dressage prioritizes skill, safety, and partnership with the horse over speed. Other programs may move quickly to trot or canter, but in dressage, children learn to ride correctly first, preventing bad habits and ensuring long-term success.
When will my child start using a saddle?
Most beginners start on a bareback pad to strengthen core muscles, balance, and body awareness before moving to a saddle.
When will my child trot or canter?
There is no fixed timeline. Progress depends on balance, strength, coordination, emotional readiness, and confidence. Children move to faster gaits only when they are fully prepared, ensuring safety and a positive learning experience.
What does progress look like in dressage?
Progress is measured by skill and confidence, not speed. You may notice your child:
Sitting taller and more balanced
Riding calmly and independently
Communicating clearly with the horse
Handling new exercises successfully
Showing increased focus and patience
Is staying longer in Intro A or B a bad thing?
Not at all. Extra time in early levels often results in stronger riders with better balance, posture, and communication skills. Staying in a level longer is a normal and important part of thoughtful development, not a sign of falling behind.
Why do some children move up faster than others?
Some riders may have natural balance, prior experience, more frequent practice, or higher confidence. Moving up quickly doesn’t mean a child is “better”, it simply means their body and mind are ready. Progress is individualized, and comparisons can be misleading.
What if my child wants to move up but isn’t ready yet?
It’s normal for children to feel eager. You can support them by:
Setting short-term goals in their current level
Celebrating skill development rather than advancement
Explaining that building a solid foundation now makes future progress easier and more enjoyable
How do instructors decide when a rider is ready to move up?
Instructors consider:
Consistency in skill performance
Balance and stability
Ability to follow instructions calmly
Emotional confidence and control
How the child handles different horses and situations
Advancement occurs only when riders are physically and emotionally ready, ensuring confidence and success.
How can parents support their child’s progression?
Avoid comparing children to other riders
Focus on effort, skill, and confidence
Encourage patience and consistency
Ask instructors questions if unsure
Positive support helps children feel secure and proud of their own growth.
Will dressage limit my child’s options for other riding disciplines?
No. Dressage is the foundation for all English riding disciplines, including hunter/jumper, eventing, and equitation. Children who learn dressage often transition smoothly into other disciplines because of their balance, posture, and strong communication with horses.
What should I expect emotionally from my child?
Learning dressage can be challenging. Some children may:
Become frustrated if a movement does not go as planned
Feel nervous or scared about new skills
Cry when overwhelmed or uncertain
These reactions are normal. Instructors provide support, encouragement, and guidance to help each child work through their emotions.
Will my child still have fun in a slower-paced program?
Absolutely. Fun in dressage comes from confidence, understanding, and mastery. Children enjoy grooming, tacking, learning exercises, and experiencing the satisfaction of riding correctly and independently.
What if my child struggles with a particular skill?
Struggling is a normal part of learning. Instructors provide individual guidance, repetition, and encouragement, helping each rider overcome challenges safely and confidently.
How long does a child typically stay in each level?
There is no set timeline. Progress depends on each child’s balance, strength, focus, and confidence. Some may move quickly; others take more time. Both are completely normal and expected.
Key Takeaways for Parents
Dressage is about building a strong foundation, not rushing.
Progress is individual - children advance when ready, not by calendar year.
Life skills like patience, confidence, and focus grow alongside riding skills.
Children trained in dressage are well-prepared for any riding discipline.