Confessions of a Horse Mum: How to Support Your Kid (Even If You Have No Clue About Horses!)

Confessions of a Horse Mum: How to Support Your Kid (Even If You Have No Clue About Horses!)

I've met a lot of horse mums over the last few years out at events and comps. Some of you have been riders for yonks, others are new to the sport, and some don’t ride at all but do everything you can to support your child’s love for horses. And there’s a place for us all. 💃

Being a horse mum isn’t just about driving to lessons, mucking out paddocks, or standing in the cold at pony club. It’s about being their biggest cheerleader, their steady hand when things get tough, and their safe place when confidence wobbles. Whether you know your way around a bridle or you’re still figuring out which grooming brush to use, you play a huge role in your child’s riding journey. Here’s some ideas I've learnt along the way that may help. 

1. Celebrate Progress, Not Just Ribbons

Not every ride ends with a clear round or a perfect test - and that’s okay. Even the top eventers have their not-so-good days. Some of the biggest wins are the little moments:
✅ The first time they canter without holding their breath.
✅ The quiet confidence in how they handle their horse.
✅ The resilience they show when things don’t go to plan.

Your words and encouragement mean more than you know. 

2. Be Their Calm When Things Get Tough

Riding is full of ups and downs. Falls, frustrating lessons, self-doubt - it happens to every rider. As a mum, you don’t have to fix everything, but you can be the steady presence that helps them through.
💛 Remind them that every great rider has rough days.
💛 Help them take a deep breath and reset.
💛 Be their safe space, not their critic.

3. Learn Alongside Them

You don’t have to be an expert to show interest. Matilda is a much better rider than me, and I've learnt so much from her. Sometimes, just being curious means the world to them.
📖 Ask them about their lessons - what they learned, what felt good, what they want to work on next.
🐴 Watch their favourite riders or competitions with them.
❓ Help them research something new about horses (even if you secretly Google it later!).

Your willingness to learn alongside them shows them their passion is valued.

4. Support Their Confidence & Mindset

Horses don’t just teach riding skills - they teach resilience, courage, and self-belief. Help your child build confidence by:
🌟 Encouraging positive self-talk: “You’ve got this!”
🌟 Giving them space to reflect with a journal (check out our fun RIDING BRAVE Journal) to track their wins.
🌟 Reminding them that mistakes aren’t failures - they’re completely natural and normal and a way for them to learn.

5. Find the Right Village

This journey is easier with the right people around you. Find:
🤝 An instructor who builds confidence, not just skills.
👯‍♀️ Friends who lift each other up (because horse friendships are the best kind!).
💬 A community of horse mums who get it. If you don't have anyone, please message me! I get it! 

6. Remember, You’re Doing an Amazing Job

It’s easy to wonder, Am I doing enough? The truth is, just by showing up, supporting, and loving them through the highs and lows - you are giving them more than you know. 💛

I hope you find this blog post helpful - please reach out if you have any questions or suggestions, Sass x 

PS. Want a special way to remind them they’re never alone in their riding journey? Our Saddle Sister Bracelet is a beautiful way to stay connected—one for you, one for them. Available now, buy one get one free - just in time for Galentine’s Day! ✨

#HorseMumLife #RidingBrave #EquestrianConfidence #SaddleSisters #braveriders

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