Sometimes it is really difficult knowing what the right thing to do is as a parent. Last Tuesday "A" had a horrible riding lesson. Midnight was playing up, kept throwing his head down which, when you are just over 6, can be very hard to control (in fact is hard to control whatever age you are). Her arms must have felt like they were being jerked out of their sockets. She ended up in tears, serious tears. I wanted to tell them to stop the lesson but also felt that wouldn't help. But I felt terrible watching her in tears and unable to help.
At her lesson this evening it was clear that Midnight had unnerved her. Although she had a different pony she just didn't look comfortable. Whereas she normally has good posture, back straight, sitting back in the saddle, tonight she was hunched over and leaning forwards. Her face also looked so unhappy. The instructor commented to me how "A" didn't look as good as normal. She has been doing really well until now and they seem to think she is quite good (for her age and experience, obviously not going to be at the Horse of the Year show in 2009). Tonight she looked as though it was her first time on a horse.
But "A" says she wants to keep riding. I am very proud that she hasn't just given up. But I am also worried that she is saying she will continue just because she knows her daddy enjoys riding and so she wants to do it. I certainly don't want to watch her hating every lesson. Admittedly she looked more comfortable by the end and she even had a smile (she also saw three other girls end up in tears tongiht, rough times at the moment at riding). And we have decided to have a private rather than group lesson next to try and get her confidence back.
3 comments:
I used to ride as a child, for a long time actually... sounds like she does like riding but was as you say unnerved.I'm slightly surprised the instructor didn't stop the lesson and try to help her when midnight was playing up
I would guess you'll get a realistic idea from the private lesson.
Just curious - why did the other girls end up in tears? what is the underlying problem at the moment, or is there one?
TO be fair, the instructor did go and talk to "A" and try to calm her down. kept telling her she was alright and doing well. I suspect they didn't canter because of the problems "A" was having. But at what point do you say enough is enough, I think the instructors try to push through.
Two of the girls in tears last night were also due to Middy, I think he is getting a reputation! But he was actually not really playing up last night (just wanted to be nearer his friend Bubbles). The other one I have no idea.
Poor Middy, doesn't he realise lesson time isn't playtime! Can't you just have a quiet word with him, man to man and tell him to stop playing up because he's bigger than he thinks and it is upsetting the girls?
It would be a real shame if this put her off.
I hope the private lesson goes well.
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