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In some localities, due to insurance considerations, children MUST have 
their feet in stirrups.  I have seen firsthand young children be excused 
from competitions if their feet didn't fit in their stirrups - including 
leadline barrels on little ponies ... due to insurance not covering mishaps 
if stirrups are not used.  Of course, here in Ontario it has also been made 
law that anyone under the age of 18 MUST wear a helmet.

Just a thought.  I like to practice riding with my feet out of my stirrups 
too - but I can see the need for safe stirrups for kids.  Heck, I am WAYYY 
past 18 and wear my helmet every time I ride - sets a good example for the 
kids. :-)

Daniela


----Original Message Follows----
From: Spottedracer@xxxxxx
Speaking as an instructor with over a decade of experience working with
'little tots', and as a mother who's two youngest having belt buckles 
they've won
since the age of 3 years....... Here's two suggestions/observations:

Why teach the child to be dependant on stirrups at such a young age? Both of
my 2nd graders have NEVER used stirrups, and can ride both my 'bouncy'
appaloosa and my gaited horses - either bareback or in a saddle... they can 
do
barrels and  pony club jumps -

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