Horsemanship Programs

Group Lessons
Palatine Stables offers Group Lessons at all levels of riding from beginner to advanced jumpers. Any registration for classes beyond the Introduction to Horsemanship are part of the continuing lesson program. These programs require authorization and placement by Stables staff through a private evaluation lesson. To schedule an evaluation, or for more information about our continuing lesson program, call 847.359.0009.

Note that any session of Group Riding Lesson fees can be prorated to accommodate a participant’s schedule, such as family vacations, school events, or any absence that would be known at the time of registration. This can only be done in person at Palatine Stables.

Private Lessons
Private lessons are offered based on availability for riders age 7 and older who are already riding at the Intermediate Level and are proficient at the walk, trot, canter and are ready to begin jumping.

Little Riders Introduction to Horsemanship | Ages 4-6
Is your child in love with ponies? Do they want to learn to ride? This program is the perfect place for them to begin to get involved in the wonderful world of ponies and horses. Children ages 4-6 will learn to be comfortable with our little four-legged friends and be introduced to basics of riding and working around our ponies. Participants should wear long pants and hard soled shoes or boots, helmets are provided for use.

Introduction to Horsemanship | Ages 7-15 & Adults
This class is required for all new students. It covers basic horsemanship skills including safety, grooming, tacking, and basic riding skills, thus building a foundation for our continuing riding program. Three lessons are non-riding. Students will learn to enter a horse’s stall and lead the horse from its stall to the arena. They will also learn to tighten the girth and adjust their stirrups, techniques to properly mount a horse, the proper dismounting procedures, and returning the horse to its stall. As students become more proficient with these skills actual riding time will increase accordingly. Students and parents should also be aware that due to the nature of the horse, behaviors such as spooking, biting, kicking, bucking, and playing will occur. “How to” handle these situations as a rider are an integral part of horsemanship and will be addressed in lessons.