About
Happy Trails promotes reading and writing through equine related learning of horsemanship skills. The students progress at their own pace through lessons covering safety, ground work that includes haltering,grooming, leading and lunging. As the skills are mastered , they progress to cart driving and riding. The students are encouraged to read and write about their experiences. I am a certified riding instructor with PATH, International and have worked in therapeutic horsemanship programs in El Paso, Texas, Phoenix, Arizona, Conroe, Texas, and now located in Cedar Park, Texas. The Happy Trails Program has served many students in developing horsemanship and literacy skills.
Helping people know horses- a very special relationship that inspires insight, confidence and a magic that will be useful throughout life.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Riding styles interested in
Have a horse
Student's interests and goals
Experience level
How often
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Alena S.
ODelle H.
Sue H.
Kimberly G.
Mary F.
Steve P.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We talk about the mind of the horse and how they think. This leads to the topics of safety and bonding with the horse . This builds confidence and leadership skills.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a PATH certified riding instructor since 2004 and have a lifetime of knowing, riding and driving horses. I am a retired school nurse and have 26 years experience of working with children of all ages.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The cost is $75 per lesson. The lessons are 2 hours long and include a discussion and vocabulary list with each topic and practice of the skills with the horsed until the student masters them before moving on to the next one. Scholarships are available. I can take 2 students per lesson and the price is not increased. I have often taught siblings and friends.
How did you get started teaching?
When I volunteered with Therapeutic Horsemanship of El Paso, in 1996, I fell in love with the healing power of horses. I Became certified in 2004 with PATH and worked with Horses Help in Phoenix , Arizona. I also worked in the Leap of Faith Therapeutic program in Conroe. I have developed Happy Trails Horsemanship and Literacy , LLC over the past 13 years and served many students.
What types of students have you worked with?
Anyone who wants to know and enjoy horses. I have also taught driving in camps with children of all ages, abilities and challenges.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
When students complete the lessons and can ride or drive with confidence and skill we go on a trail ride. Watching their confidence is such joy!!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When I take lessons, which I do regularly, I look for an instructor with good communication skills, patience and a passion for all things equine!!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Goal setting is a must, both short and long term and evaluation of progress should be on going.