Wrapping up a Unforgettable Spring Break Horse Camp
Despite a little rain trying to slow us down, the last day of camp was a smashing success, filled with laughter, learning, and hands-on activities that had everyone on their hooves, so to speak! While we couldn't saddle up for the final ride due to the weather, the campers' enthusiasm never wavered, and their newfound knowledge about horses was on full display.
Equine First Aid - A Hands-On Learning Experience
We kicked off the day with an exciting and informative equine first aid session. Campers learned how to listen to a horse’s gut sounds—a crucial skill for detecting active digestion and ensuring a horse’s health. They also practiced measuring a horse's height and weight and learned how to take vital signs, such as temperature, capillary refill time, respirations, and heart rate.
TEACHING… WHERE LAUGHTER MEETS LEARNING!
One of the most popular activities was wrapping legs, which is a vital skill for keeping horses comfortable and safe. Campers had the chance to wrap legs properly, learning the importance of technique for preventing injury.
The grand finale of the first aid lesson was getting hands-on experience with giving injections. Campers practiced both muscular and subcutaneous injections, under the careful guidance of our experienced instructors, feeling confident and capable after the exercise.
Oat Balls in the Garden Kitchen: A Delicious Treat
Next, keeping with our horse inspired Garden Kitchen theme this week… we moved into the garden kitchen for a fun and tasty activity—making protein packed oat balls! These delicious, energy-packed snacks are not only easy to make, but also perfect for keeping our campers energized after a busy day at the barn. Here’s the recipe we followed:
Oat Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
1 ½ cup whole rolled oats (not instant)
½ cup unsweetened small flaked coconut
½ cup ground flax seed
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup sunflower butter
¼ cup melted refined coconut oil
¼ cup honey
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
Give each camper a Dixie cup and have them write their name on the bottom. Set aside for later.
Provide each camper with a disposable bowl.
In the bowl, mix together the oats, flax seed, and salt.
Add the sunflower butter, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Add chocolate chips, if desired, and mix until incorporated.
Scoop 2 teaspoons of the dough, then roll it into a ball and place the ball into the Dixie cup.
The campers had a blast making their oat balls, and the best part? They thought they were delicious!
Horse Jeopardy – The Ultimate Showdown of Horse Knowledge!
After a week of hard work, learning, and hands-on activities, we wrapped up the day with a fun, competitive twist—Horse Jeopardy! The campers split into five powerhouse teams: D Pookies, The G.O.A.T.S., The Cool Kids, Chicken, and Money Goats. It was a thrilling battle of wits and equine knowledge as the teams raced to answer questions about horse anatomy, Safety, first aid, and mystery questions!
Each team brought their A-game, buzzing in with lightning-fast responses, while group leaders cheered them on with every right answer. It was clear that the campers had absorbed so much information throughout the week, and they were ready to show off just how much they knew. From guessing the names of different horse breeds to identifying parts of a horse, and knowing how much horses eat in a day…the teams were on fire!
The G.O.A.T.S., with their strategic teamwork and in-depth knowledge of horse care, were definitely a force to be reckoned with. But the Money Goats, with their quick thinking and competitive spirit, weren’t backing down! Every round brought a new wave of excitement as the teams buzzed in to claim victory for each question.
In the final round, the tension was high—who would take home the crown as Horse Jeopardy champions? The teams were neck and neck, and it came down to the final question. Would the Money Goats use their knowledge of horse first aid to claim victory? Or would The G.O.A.T.S. clinch it with their expert knowledge of horse nutrition? Wagers were in and answers for the final question submitted…. “What angle do you give a subcutaneous injection”?….45 degrees.
And the winner was... it was SO close, but in the end, The G.O.A.T.S. emerged victorious by just a whisker! They took home the coveted title of Horse Jeopardy Champs and earned bragging rights. But let’s be honest—all teams were winners in our hearts, with the amount of knowledge that was absorbed this week. The way they worked together, shared their knowledge, and supported each other was a true testament to the spirit of teamwork and learning at camp.
It was a perfect blend of fun, education, and friendly competition. The campers walked away not only with a deeper understanding of horses but also with memories of an awesome, action-packed day to cap off their week.
Camp Family Visit and Horse Knowledge on Display
Although the rain kept us from doing a final ride, we were still able to host a fun visit from the families of our campers. It was the perfect opportunity for the kids to show off what they had learned throughout the week. They demonstrated their grooming, tacking, and first aid knowledge with impressive confidence, proving just how much they'd absorbed during their time at camp.
One of the highlights of the day was the Science Poster Gallery Display, where campers proudly presented their research projects. It was a wonderful way for the kids to showcase their new understanding of horses and equine care.
Awards Ceremony - Congratulations, Campers!
As the day came to a close, we gathered for the highly anticipated awards ceremony. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to wrap up the week. Every camper earned their Bowers Riding School Green Beginner Level I Certificate and patch. Demonstrating competent understanding of equine behaviors, grooming, tacking, mounting/ dismounting, leading, identifying ten horse parts & beginner riding basics. A well-deserved recognition for their hard work, dedication, and passion for horses.
While the weather may have been a little unpredictable, the campers’ excitement and knowledge were unwavering. It was an unforgettable end to a memorable week, and we can’t wait to see all of our campers return Later in the camp season, more confident and eager to learn than ever before!
Until then, happy trails! 🐴
Ms. Lou
Families reach out to me, if you are interested in hearing about additional riding opportunities at Bowers.
Thank you for sharing your campers with us!
