Have you ever wondered why there is no national standards for horse trainers and instructors who train horses and give people horseback riding lessons?  There is no test, no trial, no screening, no certification, no required degree.  Any person can just state that they are experienced with horses and wala....they are a trainer (well, in their own mind)!!

Horses are unpredictable by nature, therefore can be dangerous.  They can spook, bolt, rear up, kick and potentially hurt the rider.  So ultimately, one would think the person training such and animal (who outweighs them by 5 times) would have specific qualifications and pass some sort of training course, with a mandatory certification or degree.

It is mind-boggling that anyone (even with no riding experience) could actually give horseback riding lessons to a young child on a horse.  Personally, I would prefer to work with a professional trainer and especially when you have a young rider to consider.  Situations with a horse can become dangerous real fast and it is when a professional is needed to prevent a bad situation becoming worse. 

What is a professional trainer?  One who has an equine degree in horse training and giving lessons.  Look for "professional" trainers.  But caution, some state that they are a professional but do not hold a degree.  Professional means degree, so what are these people thinking?  You cannot claim a title for something that you did not earn! 

Ask your trainer if he/she has an equine degree.   Experience is great also.  Look for experienced and college educated instructors.  If he/she does not have a degree, and you do not know what to look for in a trainer, go on references or if you get a good feel from the trainer. 

If you and the trainer do not click, then find a new one!