Patterns are a vital part of numerous riding and in-hand classes, but they can often be more intricate than they appear at first glance. Understanding patterns can be a fun activitiy that fills club meetings during those rainy days.
Break the meeting into three parts. Start by introducing patterns and the symbols you will be utilizing while giving each student a key to use.
- Play a quick game of matching where students must match the written instructions with the pattern diagram.
- Read through a pattern and have students draw it out as it is read aloud. Be sure to review each step several times and explain the correct pattern at the end.
- Have a pattern to practice on foot. This can be with a stick horse or without.