Under the right circumstances, children and horses can be a great combination. Children can learn a lot from horses and there is nothing more magical in a child's eyes than a magnificent, galloping horse. This can be a great combination if some very important safety issues are given a lot of thought.

First of all, you need to look objectively at your child. One 10-year old is not as mature and ready to handle the responsibilities of a horse as another 10 year old. No matter how badly your child wants to begin riding lessons, make sure they are mature enough to take the riding of the horse very seriously.

Your child needs to have a good amount of confidence. Horses know when a rider of any age isn't confident and will take full advantage of it in the form of an animal who will listen when he feels like it. If your child is confident, has good balance and coordination and knows horses need to be treated with gentle respect, they are ready to ride.

Make sure your child always wears a helmet when they ride. Even the best, most well-mannered and docile horse can get spooked and rear which could throw your child onto the hard ground. Make sure that children are well equipped with good riding gear for their own physical safety.

Horses are very intelligent and you need to let your child and their horse bond on a one on one level. This doesn't mean let them ride unsupervised, just stand back and let them bond but be available. Another way to let your child know what truly having a horse means is to let them volunteer a couple of weekends a month at a local stable. Cleaning stalls, proper feeding, grooming and other important horse care knowledge can be gained.

If your child is mature enough and ready to ride, children and horses can make a great team!