We had horses, too. Played out in the pasture with them like they were toys. Rode them without any gear much of the time. Fell off a few times, but got back on.
Last day of school, I took off my shoes and except for church on Sundays & Wednesday nights, I didn't were shoes. (Boy! Did my feet feel it, too!)
Swam in dirty old ponds, etc. never got hurt, never got infected cuts after the dirt was ground in.
Everyone played outside until long after dark. Mom's voices could be heard calling kids in to go to bed.
My first 2 or 3 yrs. of school, I walked almost 4 miles, twice a day, many times I was alone and no one ever bothered me and I was never afraid. (Moms didn't have cars.)
I have grandchildren & I am so sorry they aren't allowed to live the lives we did. It is too dangerous now. Mean crazy people who will hurt & kill kids for the pleasure of it. Sad times.