Children are always fascinated by animals from a young age, with the majority of younger people growing up in households with either cats or dogs. However, one animal that children are always interested in is horses, as they are one of the biggest animals that they are likely to come into contact with from a young age.
Horses nature of being calm and relaxing often ensures that children are able to relax around them, and they often want to learn more about the animals. You don’t need necessarily to introduce children to the best horse races according to TwinSpires.com, but empathy with a horse is a positive value to learn.
But, what are some of the best horse-related shows and cartoons that will keep kids engaged for hours on end?
The Saddle Club
One of the most popular horse-related shows for kids is The Saddle Club. This Canadian-Australian show was first broadcast in 2001 before it was brought to an end in 2009. It is based on the books by Bonnie Bryant and follows three best friends as they train to compete in equestrian events.
The story focuses on the relationship between the friends, and the problems that they encounter throughout their journey as they all look to achieve their dreams. However, the show focuses on emphasizing the importance of teamwork and friendship.
Black Beauty
While Black Beauty is one of the latest releases on this list, it will ensure that both adults and children remain engaged throughout. The film is narrated by Kate Winslet and is based on the book by Anna Sewell titled Black Beauty. It focuses on the horse that is brought to Birtwick Park where he immediately strikes up a close relationship with a teenager.
There is an immediate bond between the pair, and Black Beauty eventually helps her through different chapters of her life and helps her overcome ever challenge in front of her. The film is available to watch on Disney+.
Free Rein
Netflix is often the go-to place for parents when trying to find something for their children to watch, and one title that certainly teaches important life lessons is Free Rein. This series ran from 2017 to 2019, and stars Jaylen Brown and Freddy Carter. It is based in a fictional town in England, and focuses on the life of Zoe Phillips. The American-born 15-year-old spends the summer in England with her mother where she bonds with a horse named Raven.
The horse is often wild and mysterious, but quickly connects with the teenager after she learns how to ride. Together, the pair solve mysteries and make friends, and viewers can see how Zoe grows as a person after entering the world of equestrian, as she deals with the ups and downs of the sport.
Horseland
One of the most popular horse-related animation series’ on Amazon Prime is Horseland. This series aired in 2006 and ran for two years on CBS in the United States. The show follows the events centering around three young girls that aspire to achieve a career in equestrian. It is based at a school and stables and follows their adventures before and during competitions.
The show does an excellent job of showing the emotions that potential equine riders will go through throughout their careers, while also highlighting the importance is perfecting skills and creating long-lasting friendships.
Following the success of the television show, kids can also read up on new adventures focusing on the main characters after seven books were released. In total, there are three seasons to watch on Prime, with a total of 39 episodes available. But, it is certainly a show that young girls will want to watch over and over again.