1.  We tailor our introductory riding program to young, horse-crazy children who are either too young for traditional riding classes or horse camps, or whose busy summer schedule can't accommodate an all-day riding camp.  Camps are available for children in the 3 to 5 age range and 6 to 8 age range, although exceptions to that may be granted with prior approval (for example, older children with potential fear issues).

2. Our program concentrates on learning proper horsemanship skills, safety skills, having fun, and most importantly, LOTS OF RIDING! 

3.  Our farm is conveniently located in Fern Prairie - just two miles North of Lacamas Lake and four miles from the Camas Safeway.

Since we keep our groups very small, each child will receive individualized attention and will learn at their own speed and comfort-level.  So whether your child has never seen a real horse or pony in person before, or has had limited riding experience, this camp will be a perfect fit for them. 
 

Upcoming Pony Camp Sessions
(limited openings)

"Pony Pals" Camp - for children ages 6 to 8:

Session 1:  July 7th - 11th, 9:00 am - 12:00

Session 2: July 28th - Aug. 1st, 9:00am - 12:00 noon

Each week-long session is $175.  Long pants and closed-toed shoes required - no sandals, flip-flops or shorter "capri pants", please. 

"All About Ponies" Camp - for children ages 3 to 5

Session 1:  July 21st - 25th,  9:30am - 12:00 noon

Session 2:  Aug. 25 - 29,  9:30am - 12:00 noon

Each week-long session is $150.  Long pants and closed-toed shoes required - no sandals, flip-flops or shorter "capri pants", please. 

A 50% deposit will secure your child's spot in the desired session.  For registration information, please contact Tracey Kasten at 360-852-3250 or via email at:
 pony-pals@renaissancefarms.com

Private Lessons also available!

We don't believe that a child has to wait to be 7 or 8 years old before they can start learning how to ride, as there is so much for them to learn right now!  We specialize in children's ages 4 - 9.  Our instruction is English-based. Younger children will start out on a small Western saddle, but will only learn English cues and will progress to an English saddle as their confidence and skills improve.

Ages 4 - 5:  $25 per 45 minute lesson or $80 for a package of 4 lessons

Ages 6 + :  $30 per hr., or $100 for a package of 4 lessons

Kid at heart?! We also offer lessons to adults who have always wanted to learn how to ride, or who have been away from horses one day too many.

Mother/Child or Father/Child lesson packages available
(it really IS fun for the whole family!) 
 
For availability and registration, contact:

Tracey Kasten
pony-pals@renaissancefarms.com ,
or call:  360-852-3250
 

Other Good Things to Know...

♥ Safety is #1 - therefore, helmets are mandatory (and provided) while your child is riding. 

♥ During warmer weather, apply sunscreen each morning prior to class, as all riding is done outdoors in our 60-ft. corral. 

♥ Long hair should be in a pony-tail positioned near the bottom of the neck so that it won't interfere with the helmet.

 
About Fiona...

"Fiona" is our Pony Camp mascot and official lesson pony!  She is a black and white pinto Shetland Pony, and is very characteristic of her breed.  Fiona is very experienced with children and has provided pony rides at different venues such as church carnivals, block parties, birthday parties, etc. - her temperament is as solid as they come.  We have found that she's a great pony for kids to learn on, as she has the patience of Job! 

About the "Minnows"

 2008 welcomes the addition of two "Miniature Horses" to our program. 
"Alvin" and "Theodore" are two geldings that have been buddies for a long time. 
Their favorite things include being brushed and getting treats!  They look forward to meeting their new friends at the upcoming "All About Ponies!" camps!
 

About me...

As a parent myself, I once started out as a horse-crazy little girl myself.  I can still vividly recall my very first time on a "real" horse at the wee age of three!  I figure that if
I can remember that event so distinctly, then it just might have a similar impact on your own child - a responsibility I take very seriously. It is my mission to ensure that your child's first experience with our ponies is the best it can be, so that they can continue to enjoy learning about and being with horses as they grow. 

My love for horses has continued to this day, and my husband and I enjoy participating in a sport called "Endurance Riding" (competitive long-distance riding) with our Paso Fino horses.  Our two daughters are taking riding lessons and hope to join us on the endurance trail someday!  Our son Seth is still a bit too young for riding lessons, but we hope that he will come to enjoy horses as much as the rest of the family does.  J