Horses and Hope LLC
Lessons & Pricing
Faith-Based Instruction
Where Every Ride Has Purpose
At Horses and Hope, lessons aren't just about riding — they're about building confidence, responsibility, and character. Our trained instructors walk alongside every student, teaching them to connect with their horse while weaving in the values that matter most: gentleness, patience, and trust.
We welcome students as young as 3 years old. Our Little Riders program is specially designed for our youngest learners with shorter, age-appropriate sessions on our most gentle horses.
The Lesson Structure
How a Lesson Works
Every lesson follows a three-part structure designed to teach the full picture of horsemanship — not just the ride, but the relationship.
Groundwork & Grooming
Every lesson begins on the ground. Students learn to approach, halter, lead, and groom their horse — building trust and respect before ever climbing into the saddle. This foundational work is where horsemanship truly starts.
Tacking Up & the Ride
Students learn to properly tack up their horse — placing the saddle pad, saddle, and bridle with guidance from their instructor. Then it's time to ride. Lessons focus on balance, position, communication, and building a genuine partnership with the horse.
Untacking & Care
After the ride, students untack their horse, give them a cool-down brush, and help return everything to its proper place. Taking care of the horse after the lesson is just as important as the lesson itself — it teaches responsibility, stewardship, and gratitude.
Simple, Transparent Pricing
Lesson Rates
We offer three lesson formats to fit your child's age and experience level. All lessons are taught by one of our three certified instructors.
For Our Youngest Riders
Little Riders
Ages 3 – 5
30-Minute Lesson
- Specially designed for ages 3–5
- Shorter session — perfect attention span
- Focus on trust, balance & confidence
- Our gentlest horses assigned
- Parent welcome to stay & watch
One-on-One Instruction
Private Lesson
Ages 6 and Up
1-Hour Lesson
- Dedicated one-on-one time with instructor
- Customized to student's skill level
- Faster skill progression
- Ideal for focused learning goals
- Full grooming, tacking & care included
Confident & Independent Riders
Group Lesson
Ages 6 and Up
1-Hour Lesson
- For confident, independent riders
- Small group setting with peers
- Same core curriculum as private
- Encourages teamwork & community
- Full grooming, tacking & care included
Age & Experience Guidelines
Is My Child Ready?
We welcome riders at every stage — from toddlers just discovering horses for the first time to experienced riders ready to push their skills further. Here's what to expect for each age group.
Little Riders
Ages 3 – 5
Our Little Riders are just beginning their horse journey. Sessions are 30 minutes — the perfect length for young children. No prior experience needed. We focus on building comfort around horses, basic balance, and the joy of riding. Parents are encouraged to stay close by.
Standard Lessons
Ages 6 and Up
Students ages 6 and older participate in our full 1-hour lessons. No experience required for beginners — our instructors start from the very beginning. Students already riding at walk/trot can continue building toward more advanced skills including canter work and basic jumping.
Before You Arrive
What to Know & What to Bring
What to Wear
- Long pants — jeans or riding tights to protect legs from the saddle and stirrup leathers
- Closed-toe boots or shoes with a small heel (at least ½ inch) to prevent the foot from slipping through the stirrup
- Fitted shirt — avoid loose, flowing clothing that could catch or spook the horse
- Hair pulled back — braids, low ponytails, or low buns to keep hair out of the helmet and eyes
- Approved riding helmet — helmets are required for all riders. We have a limited supply of loaner helmets; purchasing your own is recommended
What to Expect
- Arrive 10 minutes early — it gives your child a chance to settle in and meet their horse before the lesson begins
- Meet your instructor — you'll be introduced to your assigned trainer and shown around the barn
- Barn rules briefing — all new students receive a quick orientation on how to be safe and respectful around horses
- Ask questions freely — our instructors love curious students. No question is too small when it comes to safety and horsemanship
- Come with an open heart — horses are perceptive animals. Calm, gentle energy goes a long way on day one
24-Hour Cancellation Policy
We kindly ask that cancellations be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled lesson. This allows us to offer that time slot to another student on the waitlist. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice may result in a missed lesson fee. We understand that emergencies happen — please reach out as soon as possible and we will do our best to work with you.
Before You Arrive
Barn Rules
These rules keep our riders, horses, and barn safe and running smoothly. Please review them before your first visit.