The Mindful Rider

Because enrollment is intentionally limited to eight riders, placement is application-based, not first-come, first-served.

Families must submit an application for consideration. Applications are carefully reviewed to ensure each camper will benefit from this small, skill-focused, and confidence-building experience.

With a maximum of eight riders, this program is designed for families seeking more than a typical summer pony camp experience.

Enrollment is based on fit rather than speed of registration. Applications are reviewed carefully to create a balanced group of riders with compatible ages, experience levels, and readiness.

This small group size allows instructors to give each child meaningful attention while creating a calm and supportive learning environment.

One of the most unique aspects of our program is the daily involvement of Dr. Camille, our Featured Performance & Confidence Specialist.

Dr. Camille holds a Doctorate in Sport & Performance Psychology and is a United States Pony Club “A” graduate, the highest certification awarded by Pony Club.

Through our Mindful Rider Sessions, which are woven naturally throughout the week, campers learn skills that support confident riding and healthy performance habits.

Topics may include:

• Emotional regulation before riding

• Understanding pressure and performance

• Developing focus and consistency

• Learning through challenge

• Building confidence without fear-based perfectionism

Horses naturally respond to human energy and communication, making them powerful partners in developing self-awareness and resilience.

Every rider arrives with a different level of experience, confidence, and goals.

Throughout the week, instruction is tailored to each camper so beginners can build a strong foundation while more experienced riders continue developing their skills.

Because the group is intentionally small, riders receive individualized guidance and feedback both in and out of the saddle.

Campers ride every day in small, supportive groups.

Riders work with several ponies throughout the week, which helps them learn how different horses move, think, and communicate — an important skill for developing riders.

Instruction focuses on building:

• Balance and position

• Confidence in the saddle

• Clear communication with the horse

• A strong foundation for continued riding

Campers gain meaningful experience in what it truly takes to care for a horse.

Daily instruction includes:

• Grooming and tack care

• Safe horse handling

• Feeding routines and stable organization

• Understanding horse behavior and communication

These hands-on experiences help riders develop respect for the horse and confidence in handling them safely.

Working with horses teaches patience, responsibility, and attention to detail.

Throughout the week, campers practice the routines that are part of real barn life, preparing horses, caring for equipment, and supporting one another as a team.

Our goal is to help riders develop pride in their work while learning that progress comes through practice, persistence, and a positive mindset.

For families seeking deeper individualized growth, additional private sessions with our specialist Camille may be purchased at a discounted rate.

These additional sessions include:

• 1:1 Private Riding Lessons for focused skill development
• 1:1 Sport Psychology Sessions with Camille for individualized mindset coaching

Availability is limited and scheduled outside of normal camp activities.