My kids were a bit spoiled...but we put them on horses that they had to take care of, groom before and after riding, get back on when thrown off, love even if they didn’t get a ribbon in the show. I’m a big believer in putting kids on horses if possible.
Grew on the back of a horse. Good times. First kiss was in a hay loft. LOL.
Riding didn’t do my back any favors though.