Children and horses have a natural affinity — but the quality of the introduction makes all the difference. A well-run children’s riding programme builds confidence, develops balance and body awareness, and teaches responsibility in a way that few other activities can match.
Here’s how we approach riding for children at Miguel Alves Horses in Cascais.
From What Age Can Children Start Riding?
We accept children from age 5.
Children at this age start on small, gentle ponies in a closely supervised environment. The first lessons focus on:
- Getting comfortable around horses — approach, touch, voice
- Balance at a walk — the horse does the work; the child learns to follow the movement
- Basic direction — simple rein handling in walk
- Confidence building — positive reinforcement, no pressure
By age 7–8, most children who started at 5 are comfortably trotting and beginning to steer with independence.
The Children’s Lesson Programme
Group lessons (max 4 children)
Our junior group lessons keep groups small — maximum 4 children per class — to ensure the instructor can give individual attention and adapt exercises to each child’s progress.
Classes are organised by:
- Age group: 5–7, 8–11, 12–16
- Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Having groups at the same level avoids the frustration of children holding each other back or feeling left behind.
What children learn, step by step
| Phase | Skills | Typical age |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Balance, approach, walk | 5–6 |
| Foundation | Trot, direction, stopping | 6–8 |
| Progression | Canter, circles, transitions | 8–11 |
| Development | Lateral work, jumping intro | 11–14 |
| Competition prep | Dressage / jumping tests | 14+ |
Benefits of Horse Riding for Children
Physical development
- Balance and coordination — the three-dimensional movement of the horse develops core stability and proprioception
- Posture — sitting tall in the saddle transfers to everyday posture
- Strength — particularly legs, core and arms
Emotional and cognitive development
- Responsibility — caring for the horse before and after lessons
- Patience — horses respond to calm, not force
- Confidence — tangible weekly progress gives children real evidence of their own improvement
- Focus — riding requires simultaneous attention to multiple things
Practical advantages for parents
- Small groups — your child is not lost in a large class
- All weather — covered indoor arena means lessons happen rain or shine
- Languages — instruction in English, Portuguese or French
- Holiday camps — full-day programmes during school breaks
Holiday Camps for Children
The most immersive option for younger riders: our equestrian holiday camps run during school Christmas, Easter and summer breaks.
Children spend the full day (09:00–17:00) at the school:
- Morning and afternoon riding sessions
- Horse care (grooming, feeding)
- Games and equestrian knowledge activities
- Lunch and snack included (no need to bring food)
Price: €280 per week per child. Ages 5–16.
Prices
| Lesson | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner single lesson | 30 min | €40 |
| Monthly plan — 1×/week | 4 lessons | €140/month |
| Monthly plan — 2×/week | 8 lessons | €240/month |
| Holiday camp (1 week) | Mon–Fri, full day | €280 (incl. lunch) |
Prices excluding VAT. One-off enrolment of €150 for monthly plans.
What to Bring
- Comfortable trousers (jodhpurs or stretchy leggings; not stiff jeans)
- Closed-toe shoes with a flat sole (not heavy-soled trainers)
- Sunscreen in summer
We provide: certified helmets and body protectors at no charge.
Book Your Child’s First Lesson
The best way to start is with a single beginner lesson — 30 minutes, €40. It lets the child try riding without any long-term commitment, and most children leave wanting to come back.
Book now · View prices · Holiday camps
We’re open every day, 08:00–20:00. Located at Quinta da Marinha, Cascais — 30 min from Lisbon.