by Shane Hampton

Created on: May 05, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

Perhaps one of the most important steps in choosing a pony for your children is selecting a breed and organization in which to become involved.

The Pony of the Americas (POA) organization (http://poac.org) is a medium sized breed, generally around 14 hands and no more than 56 inches, with Appaloosa color characteristics. These ponies was first bred over fifty years ago when an Iowa man wanted to create a pony large enough for his children to ride and with a disposition good enough to take care of them.

Now, the POAs are one of the best options for youth (18 and Under) competition. All types of events are offered at each POA show, including Halter and Showmanship, Western and English Horsemanship and Pleasure, Jumping, and Timed Events. Events are broken down into four age groups, including the age six and under "Leadline" competition for the very little competitors!

You will want to make sure that your child will be happy with the pony you select. Is your child looking to play around the house, to compete locally, or to seek national titles? The POA can be appropriate for all of these goals.

You may still be struggling with the idea of getting a pony for your children. If so, consider the benefits of participating in activities like the POA show circuit. You will travel to many states, attending local, regional, and national events. You will meet lots of fun families similar to yours and maybe even go sightseeing as you travel. Your child will develop friendships and learn how to exhibit good sportsmanship. He or she will have an activity that they are passionate about, keeping them out of trouble. They may even seek leadership opportunities such as the Youth Board of Directors for the national POA Club- opportunities that will broaden their horizons. POA even offers scholarships to many graduating exhibitors. But most importantly, if you buy your child an equine companion, they will get to experience the special bond between a pony and rider.

When choosing a pony for your child, you should strongly consider the Pony of the Americas breed because it was designed to meet the needs of young riders and because it offers an extensive youth program for your child to become involved in. You might even have find that you are having as much fun as your child when you travel to competitions!

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