“Fun In The Sun” – Email 8

Hi and fellow subscribers,

So… the summer holidays are finally upon us!

For some of you, this will mean six weeks spending far too much time trying to entertain the kids, or even the grandkids. For others, it may be more about making an effort to avoid the school holiday madness at all cost!

Whichever is the case, if you have access to a horse, then you've got the perfect way to keep the kids entertained… or, well, keep yourself entertained and away from public places!

Here are a few of my favourite things you could be challenging the kids to, or that you could be spending time on in the safety of your yard this August (well… all but the last one).

— Abi Pass MSc RAMP & The Intelligent Horsemanship Team

Give Gates A Go…

Have you mastered the art of the mounted gate? Or is it still a bit of a mystery?

This video will help you perfect your gate-opening technique.

2. Learn To Love Hacking…

Without a doubt, one of the most fun things to do in the summer is to hack! And while some of us feel confident in the saddle and head out no matter the circumstances, many can relate to 'hacking anxiety' — either in general or around a few specific triggers… like tractors!…

This training guide, offers tips and exercises to help build confidence and ensure you and your horse get to enjoy your time out hacking together to the full.

3. Get 'Perfect Manners'… with IH Awards

Here's a thought: if one of your local IH Trainers offers IH Awards, why not make it your mission to earn a rosette this summer?

Or better yet, set the kids a challenge to earn one!

4. Master Pole Work with this Advance Guide…

I bet you've not tried all of these exercises

If you're looking for something a bit more of a challenge, why not have a go at these pole work exercises? If you're cunning enough and have a child with some spare time at your disposal this summer, you might even be able to get them to set the poles up for you… If not, you might be the one setting up the poles… I'll leave that one up to you 😉

Why not print out this guide and take it to the yard?