Spend time with horses and with each other in this 4-week hands-on course designed for one caring adult and one child. Main Stay’s Horsemanship Lessons are perfect for kids (ages 7+) who are new to horses and parents, grandparents or guardians who want screen-free quality time.
Horsemanship Lessons Program Details
When: Mondays – NEW START DATE – begins November 3, 2025 from 4-5 p.m. | Duration: 4 consecutive weeks
Cost: $175 per child (adult attends at no extra cost)
REGISTRATION CLOSES ON OCTOBER 29, 2025, or once all spots are filled.
Through groundwork-based sessions facilitated by a PATH Intl. certified instructor and supported by Main Stay’s trained volunteers, participants will gain confidence, safety awareness, and a meaningful connection with our horses.
In this 4-week course, kids and adults will grow and bond together by learning:
- Meet & Greet the Horse – How to safely walk up to a horse, put on a halter, and give them a good grooming.
- Walk as a Team – Practice leading and building trust with your horse
- Speak “Horse” – Discover what your horse’s ears, tail, and body are saying.
- Bond from the Ground – Fun, no-riding activities to connect with your horse and with each other.
Slots are limited! Groups are kept small with 4 child-adult pairs to ensure a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have additional questions that are not answered below, please give our office a call at 815-653-9374 and ask for Mikki Connors, Instructor and Programs Assistant.
Who can come with the child — does it have to be a parent? >>>
A: Not at all! Any caring adult is welcome: parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, older sibling, or guardian. The program is designed for one adult and one child to share the experience together.
How big is the class? >>>
A: Very small! We limit the group to 4 child–adult pairs. Each pair will have their own horse, creating a calm, personalized experience.
What ages can participate? >>>
A: Children ages 7–16 are welcome. The adult partner can be any age over 18.
Do we need horse experience? >>>
A: No prior horse experience is required! Our certified instructor and volunteers will guide you every step of the way.
Will we be riding the horses? >>>
A: This program is ground-based. You’ll lead, groom, and learn to communicate with your horse. No riding involved.
What should we wear? >>>
A: Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required for safety. Sessions are held in our indoor arena heated arena, but you should dress for the weather.
Can we come to our lesson early? >>>
A: Please plan to arrive/leave no more than 10 minutes earlier/later than the scheduled time.
Do you offer horsemanship lessons for just adults? >>>
A: We do! If you are interested in learning more or filling out an interest form, please visit: mainstayfarm.org/horsemanship-lessons
Registration Form
Registration closes on October 29, 2025. Registration is required.
Sign up to receive Main Stay's monthly newsletter Many Hearts. One Farm.
SIGN UP
How You Can Help
Main Stay is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and receives no state or federal funding. Through the generosity of individuals, private foundations, corporations and service organizations, Main Stay is able to touch hundreds of lives each year.
Accomplishments & Accreditation
