HORSE HANDS
Fall classes will be posted on august 21!
We are hoping to accept new students into our Horseback Riding Series program in January 2027.
Horse Hands
Horse Hands is an educational, interactive and fun-filled program that connects children and families with the wonder of horses while supporting the Zoo’s mission to inspire people to care for the natural world.
Programs are held at the Zoo’s Thunderbird Equine Facility, under our spacious covered arena, providing a comfortable setting for learning year-round.
Our ground horsemanship experiences are designed for children ages 4 – 7 and offered in small groups of 10 or fewer participants, allowing for personalized instruction and hands-on learning. Students can also begin horseback riding lessons when they reach 8 years old.
Participants will discover the fundamentals of horsemanship, including:Â Â
- Safe practices for working around horses
- Building trust and positive relationships with horses
- Daily horse care and grooming
- Understanding horse behavior and communication
- Developing confidence, responsibility and respect for animals Â
Whether students dream of eventually showing in a competition or simply enjoying horses for pleasure, our experienced instructors create a supportive environment filled with encouragement, teamwork, confidence-building and lifelong lessons both in and out of the saddle. We are here to build a solid foundation.Â
Please read the following document before submitting a horse hands registration:
CERTIFIED LESSON STANDARDS
All instruction follows the standards established by the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), ensuring a safe, high-quality learning experience.
Whether your child dreams of riding horses or simply wants to learn more about these incredible animals, Horse Hands offers an unforgettable introduction to the world of horsemanship. Â
Please read the following document before submitting horse hands registration:
FIND YOUR HORSE HANDS PROGRAM
A gentle introduction to horses
AGES 4 - 5 (with parent or chaperone)
Perfect for young animal lovers, this three-class series introduces children to the wonderful world of horses in a fun, safe and hands-on environment. Each child attends with a parent or chaperone, making it a memorable experience to enjoy together.
The series includes two hand-led riding experiences, giving children their very first opportunity to sit on and interact with one of our gentle horses.
Participants will learn:
- Horse Care and Safety - Basic horse safety, grooming, bathing, and leading.
- Introduction to Riding - Experience what it feels like to ride with instructor-guided, hand-led rides.
- Confidence Around Horses - Build comfort while learning through play and hands-on activities.
CLASSES STARTING SEPTEMBER 2026
Is Your Child Ready to Catch the Horse Bug?
AGES 6 - 7 (WITH PARENT OR CHAPERONE)
This engaging three-class series is designed for beginner horse enthusiasts. Through fun, interactive lessons, children discover what it’s like to care for and work safely around horses while enjoying at least two hand-led riding experiences.
Each child participates alongside a parent or chaperone, creating a supportive and memorable learning experience.
By the end of the series, your child will have built confidence, curiosity and a solid foundation for future equestrian adventures.
Participants will learn:
- Horse Safety and Grooming - Learn how to safely approach and care for horses.
- Leading & "Whoa!" - Practice confidently leading a horse and learning how to stop safely.
- Horse Breeds and Colors - Explore the many breeds and coat colors through interactive activities with our horses.
- Bath Time - Help bathe the horses and learn why grooming is important.
CHOOSE YOUR SESSION BELOW!
Discover Life Behind the Barn Doors
AGES 8 - 17
Curriculum is subject to change.
The academy has weekday class offerings that are ideal for homeschool or modified school schedules.
Hosted at the Phoenix Zoo, Horse Hands Academy gives students an immersive introduction to horsemanship and daily barn life. Over four weeks, participants build confidence through hands-on experiences caring for horses while learning the responsibilities that keep a barn running smoothly.
Rather than focusing on riding, this program emphasizes horse care, handling, safety and practical horsemanship skills. By the end of the academy, students will have developed practical horsemanship skills, greater confidence and a deeper appreciation for caring for horses.
WEEK 1:
GETTING STARTED
- CHA-based horse safety fundamentals
- Meet your class horse
- Grooming basics
- Stall cleaning and barn chores
WEEK 2:
HANDLING HORSES
- Leading skills
- Personal space and boundaries
- Building trust through groundwork
- Continued daily barn responsibilities
WEEK 3:
HORSE CARE ESSENTIALS
- Tack cleaning and maintenance
- Feeding and watering routines
- Understanding daily horse care
WEEK 4:
IN-HAND TRAIL CHALLENGE
Students work together to build an in-hand obstacle course before leading their horses through it, celebrating everything they've learned throughout the program.
CHOOSE YOUR SESSION BELOW!
LEARN TO RIDE THE HORSE HANDS WAY
AGES 8 - 17
Our riding program goes beyond simply learning to ride:Â We teach the complete picture of horsemanship.
We will be offering spaces to students returning from spring 2026 enrollment. Enrollment for students new to the Riding Series or currently on the waitlist will be offered as space becomes available. We will be adding more classes in January 2027!
Students will learn:
- Horse safety
- Grooming and horse care
- Tacking up
- Natural horsemanship principles
- English and Western riding fundamentals
Plan your visit today!
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.
Plan your visit today!
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.
