(April 15, 2019, 12:57 pm)
My daughter and I both joined Cantercall in September 2018 after learning of their location.
The first thing that struck me was how much riding all the students were doing during the lesson. They were constantly in motion which was a large departure from how we previously rode. We actually had to “catch up” in our posting trot to build strength and stamina.
I was also immensely impressed with the quality of the lesson. Lauryn is constantly engaged with her students. Focusing on the necessity of flatwork before the jump has improved our riding significantly and kept us safe. Teaching the student the importance of keeping your riding interesting for your horse/pony keeps you mentally engaged which is very important for your horse, for you and will be a benefit in any discipline you choose. All of this is accomplished in a intuitive and respectful manner. Her teaching style allows riders to work through their difficulties and leave the lesson feeling determined.
I’ve had the pleasure to watch all the kids interact with Lauryn on “Barn Mice” weekends. Her belief in their capabilities is sometimes higher than their own. Yet, encouragement and her ability to let them safely solve a problem on their own, has resulted in thriving children who want to work, offer solutions and leave the barn happy, tired and contented. It is more than I could have hoped for!
The community this place has is wonderful. From Lauryn’s soup bubbling away in the crockpot on weekends for all to have, Pony Club meetings, barn events, to simply enjoying the company of the other people there, I feel truly blessed to have fallen into such a wonderful place.
Finally, the care and concern given to the horses at the heart of the schooling program is wonderful. Each schooling horse is as well treated as the children who ride them. Lauryn utilizes teachable moments to educate the kids about kindness and respect to all creatures.
Cantercall has easily become a second home on weekends and a marvelous place for my daughter to grow up in an environment that values children, horses, and people. I could continue as there have been so many moments I have appreciated for my daughter and all the kids. It’s a wonderful place to be.
