The Pony School at Carolina Ranch
Growing up with ponies
At Carolina Ranch we believe that when a child meets a pony, it can become something far more meaningful than a simple lesson.
Getting close to an animal means learning to understand it, respect it and look after it, and building, little by little, a relationship based on trust.
Our Pony School was created with exactly this aim: to help children discover the world of ponies through play, movement and their bond with the animals, surrounded by the nature of Carolina Ranch.
More than just riding a pony
Before getting into the saddle, there’s a pony to get to know. Children learn how to approach the animal, how to connect with it and that looking after it is part of the experience.
Through age-appropriate activities, the Pony School becomes a chance to develop:
- balance and coordination
- independence and confidence
- attention and concentration
- respect for animals
- cooperation and team spirit
- belief in their own abilities
Everything happens through play and direct contact with the ponies, respecting each child’s pace and personality.
Learning through play: the Pony Games
Play is one of the loveliest ways to introduce children to the world of horses. Through exercises, small courses and games, the Pony Games help develop balance, coordination and the ability to interact with the pony.
Above all, they let children learn while having fun. We’re not looking for performance: we want every child to have a positive experience, gain confidence and gradually build a relationship with their pony.
The Pony School throughout the year
The Carolina Ranch Pony School is for children aged 4 to 11. Sessions are normally held once a week, so children can follow an ongoing programme, gradually getting to know the ponies and the world around them.
For information on courses, availability and fees, we prefer to talk directly with families.
On holiday in Sant'Antioco? Discover our Summer Pony Games
You don’t need to attend our Pony School all year round to enjoy this experience. During the summer season we also run Pony Games lessons and experiences, designed with children and families on holiday in Sant’Antioco in mind.
A chance to get close to the ponies, play, learn and spend time in the nature of Carolina Ranch. For availability, format and prices, contact us directly: we’ll give you all the information and work out together which experience suits you best.
Every child has their own pace
Some children arrive at the Ranch wanting to climb onto a pony straight away. Others prefer to watch it, stroke it and get to know it before coming closer. That’s fine by us.
Every child has their own character and pace, and our goal is to create a calm, positive encounter with the animal. That’s why we work carefully, without forcing anything, letting trust grow little by little.
An experience the whole family can enjoy
While the children discover the world of ponies, parents can also soak up the atmosphere of Carolina Ranch and get to know the place, the animals and the nature around us.
For families with children and teenagers of different ages, we can also suggest the other activities available at the Ranch, choosing together the ones that suit you best. For young people aged 12 and over, discover Ranch Life.
What families say
“What I loved about the ranch was the care and gentleness with which all the animals are treated, and the patience with which they taught us how to ride. My 8-year-old son had a great time.”
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“Insert a real review of the Pony School (Google/Tripadvisor).”
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Important information
Ages 4 to 11. Max weight 40 kg.
An ongoing programme, with sessions normally once a week.
Available during the summer season, subject to availability.
For format and prices, please contact Carolina Ranch directly.
Activities are arranged directly with the Ranch.
Activities may be scheduled or changed depending on weather conditions, organisational needs and the welfare of the animals.
Would you like to give a pony experience as a gift?
An experience at Carolina Ranch can also make an unusual gift. For a birthday, a special occasion or simply to give a child a special moment with the animals, get in touch to find out what’s available.
There’s no need to choose a date straight away: the family can contact us later to arrange availability and details together.