Child 1 Age 10 - 12 (Female)
Program(s) focused in Horseback Riding/Equestrian
(5) Overall experience
Riding camps at Kildare Stables are great for all ages from never-been-on-a-horse-before to the experienced rider preparing for local shows. Off-horse activities are fun and the coaches and staff are experienced and great with kids. My daughter has attended for many years and hopes to continue to help as a teen. She is excited to go back each year and has made close friendships with other campers and staff. I do not hesitate to recommend it to friends.
(5) Reason for choosing the camp
We chose this camp because of the excellent coaching and staff, convenience of location, and small group size. The cost is equivalent to similar camps in the region for riding, and comparable to some other sports camps. There were no hidden costs. Some equipment is available for loan at camp (eg helmets).
(5) Program quality and activities
My child enjoyed all the activities. Some of the camp weeks have focused on different aspects of the equine industry including exposure to different professionals and a trip to a racecourse. Other camps have focused more on skills for shows. There has been a great mix of learning skills and fun activities. There are fun crafts and opportunities for some downtime. Often there is a mini-show at the end of the week.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
There is a range of ages (mainly girls) and a good mixture of a few girls that know each other already and new friends. My child has not experienced any cliques among the other girls. Older campers are encouraged to role model and lead the younger campers. My daughter has found the camp a wonderful opportunity to develop leadership skills.
(5) Skills and growth
My daughter has gained skills in all aspects of horse care. Riding teaching is catered to the level of ability in the camp. English riding is coached at this barn and in the advanced camps many girls are preparing for local schooling shows or the Kawartha hunter-jumper shows. My daughter has been challenged by the opportunity to ride a variety of ponies and horses.
(5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
There is a mixture of experienced riding coaches and younger staff who are experienced riders. Communication is by email or directly. The staff are accessible and friendly. They are exceptionally flexible if a child has any specific needs.
I have never had any concerns with the level of supervision or safety at camp.
(5) Advice and tips
This is a wonderful camp for a beginner rider or more experienced. Bring lots of drinking water as no drinkable tap water at camp.
Prepare to be muddy and dirty after a day of camp.
Winter camp can be quite cold.
For parents - there is a good chance you child will want to ride all year round after attending this camp.
My daughter (now 9), started going to Kildare Riding Camps in the summer when she was 6, and she looks forward to it as being a part of her summer every year since. We try to register for as many week...
Both of my granddaughters have been to camps at Kildare during the summer and the March break camps. They love being there and learning about the horses and helping to care for them. The girls have l...
