What If One Time on a Horse Could Change the Way Your Child Sees Themselves?

It’s More Than Just a Ride—It’s a Confidence Booster in Boots

Picture your child—maybe a little unsure or glued to a screen—meeting a horse for the first time, climbing into the saddle, and learning to move with a powerful animal as their partner. In just thirty minutes, something changes. You can see it in the way they sit taller, speak more clearly, and smile with purpose.

At Strides Riding Academy, we offer introductory horseback riding lessons for kids and teens ages 5–18. These aren’t intense training sessions or long-term commitments. They’re a chance to explore something new, build confidence, and discover if riding is something they’d like to continue.

First-timers are not just welcome, they’re the riders we get most excited about.

Why Kids Walk Away Taller—Literally and Figuratively

Horses have a way of bringing out something special in kids. They require calmness, focus, and leadership. In just one lesson, your child will:

• Learn to communicate without saying a word

• Focus on the moment and their surroundings

• Build a real sense of accomplishment
  

It’s not just fun—it’s empowering. And many kids who don’t click with traditional sports or group settings find horseback riding gives them a place to shine.

What to Bring for the First Ride

Your child will need:

• Boots (any sturdy, closed-toe boot works)

• Long, comfortable pants for riding
  

We have helmets available to borrow for their first ride, or your child can bring their own. No need to own gear or have horse experience. Just come ready to try something new.

Come Visit Us in Petaluma—Serving Santa Rosa, Novato, and Sebastopol Families Too

Strides Riding Academy is located at 100 Lynch Rd, Petaluma, CA—easy to reach from Santa Rosa, Novato, Sebastopol, and nearby towns. We’ve created a warm, welcoming space where kids can step into a new world for the first time.

The intro ride is a one-time experience to see how riding feels. If your child enjoys it, they can move into:

• Weekly riding lessons

• Horse lease opportunities

• Competitive pathways like the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) or local horse shows
  

But first, just let them try. No pressure. Just the joy of a new experience.

 FAQ

1. At what age can kids start horseback riding at Strides?

We welcome kids starting at age 5 and up through 18 years old.

2. Does my child need their own horse or equipment?

Nope! We provide the horse, the helmet (if needed), and the instruction. You just bring boots, pants, and a good attitude.

3. Where is Strides Riding Academy located?

Our facility is at 100 Lynch Rd, Petaluma, CA, and we serve families from Santa Rosa, Novato, Sebastopol, and surrounding areas.

4. How do I sign up for an intro lesson?

Just visit Intro Lessons Registration Page,  choose your location and book your child’s first ride or contact us for available times.

 Final Thought

Maybe your child hasn’t found “their thing” yet. Maybe they’re hesitant to try new activities or haven’t felt truly confident in a while. That’s okay.

Sometimes, one unexpected experience—like getting on a horse—can be the moment they begin to see themselves differently. Stronger. More capable. More in control.

At Strides, we believe in giving kids the space to discover that for themselves.

Let your child try an intro riding lesson. Just once.

You might be surprised at what they discover and what they carry with them long after they hop off the saddle.