Saddle Up In Van Saun Park

For so many kids, riding a horse is more of an act of imagination than a reality. But luckily for youngsters in our area, the barn at Van Saun Park offers the opportunity not only to ride, but to learn about proper care, feeding and daily maintenance of these beautiful and intelligent animals.

Anna Gassib is the horsewoman in the know for any information about the "Pony Camp" which runs throughout the summer at Van Saun. While Van Saun Park itself is owned by The County of Bergen, Indian Hills Farm, LLC. is the approved operator of the Pony Track there.

The Pony Camp, as well as other riding activities continue all year round at Indian Hills Farm Family Equestrian Center in Franklin Lakes, where there are indoor (and heated) facilities for young riders.

Anna Gassib is tremendously at home around her equine friends, and at a recent town parade in Franklin Lakes which was comprised mostly of domestic and pet animals, she walked along with one of the adorable miniature horses from the camp.

"The kids loved it," she beams. And most likely, the adults as well!

Riding is an activity which is known to develop agility, balance, confidence and focus in children (as well as adults). Many studies have shown that children who suffer from various conditions may benefit greatly from riding.

In fact, the term "therapeutic horseback riding" was established specifically to describe the riding experience which is specifically utilized to help treat children and adults with a large variety of cognitive, neurological, physical and emotional impairments.

In particular, horseback riding, along with learning the proper care for the animal, has been shown to assist those with autism. But aside from the many benefits associated with riding, the experience of growing to know and understand a horse or pony, is an enriching one.

Communicating with an animal as sensitive and alert as a horse is like learning another language. The skill this takes can easily be translated into so many other important aspects of growing up.

The pony rides at Van Saun are a sure thing when it comes to pleasing the little ones, but if you arrive a bit before the gates open for rides on a Sunday morning, you and your child will be treated to the ponies eating their breakfast and getting saddled up for the fun ahead.

While many area parents know the track at Van Saun park only for the pony rides which instantly turn into treasured photo opportunities, not as many parents are aware of the tremendously fun and instructive activities offered at the Pony Camp.

Proper horse safety heads up the list.
It is imperative for any rider, particularly children, to be instructed thoroughly in the mechanics of horseback riding.

The Pony Camp (which runs year-round) also offers kids instruction in general horse care. Learning the responsibilities involved in keeping horses healthy and safe is a key element in riding instruction. Along with safety and care, there are a roster of other activities as well, some of which include:

• Daily horseback riding
• Games on horse back
• Equine education
• Grooming and Tacking
• Nutrition and care
• Horse behavior
• Field trips (within the county park)
• Weekly carnival and picnic
• Nature walks and guided tours of the county zoo

Both English and Western riding disciplines are offered, and children ages 5-13 are welcome to join. Levels taught range from beginner to advanced, and camp runs 5 days a week from 9 AM to 2 PM in the afternoon.

Campers bring their lunch each day from home and special discounts are available for Bergen County residents.

And if your child is dreaming of learning to ride a real horse (and you are dreaming of not having to travel far or break the bank in order to grant this wish!) contact Anna Gassib at: 201-669-1537, 973-279-2974 or email: IndianhillFarms@aol.com.