The Riding Program:

The CJF Riding Program is a progressive program that the Nez Perce community youth ages 6-18 advance through, beginning with the basics of horse handling safety and continues up through advanced riding techniques interwoven with culturally relevant history and crafts.  Participants learn proper equitation (position) in the saddle and how it relates to enhanced communication with the horse.  Life skills such as, emotional control, setting boundaries, problem solving with critical thinking skills, respect, responsibility, and positive self-talk are all interwoven with the basic horsemanship skills needed to correctly and confidently ride a horse.   The physical aspect of riding increases fitness, balance, and flexibility.   A solid curriculum with a foundation in safety, sound horsemanship skills, and cultural preservation encourages pride of association from the participants and Nez Perce community.