Buying kids' pony - should I really let them decide?!

I had exactly that dilemma last year as looked at two 12.2hh jumping ponies for 8yo son. I wanted to go for one - super flatwork, easy to ride and all the jump he would need - and he wanted the downhill pony who was croup high and not particularly athletically moving.

Son felt strongly and I went with that. The pony I wouldn't have chosen has been nothing short of a star, with son feeling he is extra special as he was his choice. I do have to live with regular "I told you he was the right one" though!

OP best of luck and I hope your children have fun
 
I think second pony sounds better!
Been there done it.
plus a bit older so if kids loose interests it won't matter if he does less, he's already had a busy life. Ideal long term companion.
 
Having a "project" pony for my daughter took quite a bit of the fun away.

I was always over-anxious that we were giving her the right education and not teaching any bad habits etc and generally too analytical of everything.

Should your children lose interest you would feel a lot guiltier about the grey not being ridden / brought on than you would the ex-riding school pony.
If your children bring friends that insist they "can ride" - and I am sure there are a few parents who know how inaccurate that can be- you will feel a lot less stressed with them around the latter too.
 
Pls pls Fugly!! speaking as a parent who has gone through months and months of pony searching, if they feel safe it will give them confidence, they will then enjoy learning, looks aren't everything as i don't need to tell you horses are far too expensive both in time and pocket to not be able to have 100% enjoyment when you are learning :)
 
melbiswas said:
Having a "project" pony for my daughter took quite a bit of the fun away.

I was always over-anxious that we were giving her the right education and not teaching any bad habits etc and generally too analytical of everything.

Should your children lose interest you would feel a lot guiltier about the grey not being ridden / brought on than you would the ex-riding school pony.
If your children bring friends that insist they "can ride" - and I am sure there are a few parents who know how inaccurate that can be- you will feel a lot less stressed with them around the latter too.
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god yes!! those kids that know "everything" grr
 
Kallibear said:
The very quickest way to put kids off and loose interest is to over horse them and frighten them. They NEED something safe, sensible and fun. They're not interested in how good the pony will be in a years time, they want to ride NOW. They also don't want to have to put lots of boring schooling in either, they wantnto gallop about and jump straight away. A pony that can't or won't do what they ask is very off putting, esp if they're learning. Get the been there, done that pony, even if he is fugly.
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An absolutely spot on post. Couldn't have put it better myself. I don't know why you even needed to ask our advice, its a no brainer, Fugly all the way!
 
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