Young Horses, the four "T"s - Taming, Teaching, Training and Time

 

Taming

When working with young horses the first and perhaps most important step is to Tame your horse.

This means getting them used to the idea that you are a trusted leader. It's best done gradually and systematically. With my Blinkbonnie Youngsters I like to start on the day they are born and do a tiny bit each day for the whole of their lives,

But even if your young horse has been more or less wild when you get them you can gradually Tame your youngster so that they can accept the work life you want for them in the future.

Teaching

In Teaching it is imperative to understand each horse's nature, character and temperament.

Remember that the horse 'must' not do anything, actually you need to find a way to compel the horse without force. As a teacher you 'must' develop a Language (words, body position, hands, seat, leg) so you can communicate with your horse, starting simply, like talking to a child, no need to shout, just explain!

Your horse must be relaxed  in order to learn successfully so the Taming step should be well underway.

Then you need to develop a program which is logical and progressive.

🌞 Find the smallest step to teach first

🌞 Put the horse into the right position for the action

🌞 For the smallest success say "Thank You"

🌞 Repeat to imprint

🌞 Improve by repeating in different situations

Training

When teaching your young horse, the new technique may come quickly, however, the strength to continue and improve takes regular repetition and gymnastic development.

A Training program which progressively strengthens your horse without affecting their soundness or making them dull and bored requires imagination and knowledge.

The discipline to correctly train your horse is also good for the rider 😎

Time

With your young horse Time is a major consideration!

💛 Take your Time - Don't be impatient

💛 Enjoy each different Time with your young horse - don't wish each stage would hurry up

💛 Spend Time - just doing those routine tasks, practising your training, building up the relationship

So remember Tame, Teach, Train and both take and spend Time with your young horse - enjoy the journey.