Lesson Program
Our lesson program was established as an opportunity for both children and adults to learn how to ride in a safe, professional, and fun atmosphere. We have qualified instructors for all levels of riding. Lessons begin at the age of 5 and up. Our lesson ponies and horses are safe, honest, trustworthy, and fun for our riders.
When you arrive at Fox Crossing Equestrian, we want to help you learn the skills necessary to ride. We teach you how to tack up a horse, the care of tack, how to groom a horse, how to ride, and eventually participate in a horse show if that is your goal. We care about you, your safety, and your well-being. Most of all we like to have fun in a safe, friendly, and encouraging environment!
Description & Rates
| Type | Description | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Single Lessons | 1/2 Hour, Private | $55.00 |
| 1 Hour, Private | $75.00 | |
| Group Lessons | 45 Min - 1 Hour | $50.00 |
| Lesson Packages | 1/2 Hour, Private, 4-PACK | $210.00 |
| 1/2 Hour, Private, 10-PACK | $550.00 | |
| 1 Hour, Private, 10-PACK | $750.00 | |
| * 10-PACK, Pay for 10 lessons, get 1 FREE (11 lessons) | ||
| * Lessons must be used by the end of the current calendar year. |
Cancellation Policy: Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice are subject to full charge.
What will you need for an exciting Fox Crossing lessons experience?
Riders are highly suggested to provide their own helmet and paddock boots. Helmets are available for new riders to borrow.
Please note that appropriate footwear is required in the barn and on the farm property for riders and non-riders (parents, caregivers, siblings, friends, etc.). This includes riding boots (paddock boots) and closed-toed shoes. No flip-flops or open-toed shoes are allowed, for safety reasons.
Ideal riding gear includes:
An ASTM-SEI Certified/Approved riding helmet (no bike helmets) is required
Breeches or Jodhpurs pants
A t-shirt or polo with sleeves (please, no tank tops)
Paddock Boots or Tall Boots (Absolutely NO SNEAKERS)
Gloves and a Crop
Additionally, dress for the outside elements and temperature. Although we have a lovely insulated indoor arena, our barn and arena are not climate controlled. Also, wear sunscreen and bring water during the warmer months.
Alternatively, jeans can be substituted for breeches, and a boot with a small heel can be worn in place of proper riding boots. Please, no sneakers for riding.
We can lend you a helmet if you have yet to purchase one.
Why shouldn't I ride in sneakers?
The heel on the paddock or tall boots keeps the stirrup iron from slipping too far back on the heel or ankle and getting stuck. Sneakers lack a heel and pose a safety hazard.
Why should I ride in gloves, even in the summer?
Gloves provide a better grip on the reins, as well as protection from blisters.
Where should I go to purchase proper riding gear?
We have an on-site tack shop The Foxy Rider www.thefoxyrider.com.
Discount packages are available for first-time riders. The shop has riding clothes, horse and pony tack, accessories, and gifts galore!
Need to purchase riding gear for upcoming lessons? Visit our shop!
Meet our Trainers
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Emilee Knox Cimino
Emilee was obsessed with horses since before she could walk and has made these gorgeous animals a major part of her life. She grew up at a barn alongside her mom who was a stable owner and instructor. Over the last decade, Em rode on the FCE IEA Team as the Team Captain. She competed in both Hunters and Equitation as a junior and has shown successfully in CHSA, CHJA, M&S, and USEF A Rated Shows. Em enjoys teaching all ages and disciplines and is happy training new and experienced riders. Her teaching method revolves around having a strong base in the core concepts of riding so that the rider always feels secure and safe. Em manages all of the horses care and training at FCE. She is in charge of the horse show schedule for all clients as well as home shows. Em has been recognized for her unusual talent in the saddle as well as on the ground. Shen is a current Member of CHSA, CHJA, M&S, USEF and USHJA.
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Nicole Schavione
Nicole Schavione grew up riding from a young age and is excited to be at Fox Crossing. As a mom of two girls her warm and friendly personality is an asset to have for our “littles” as well as those riders that need a laid back approach in their lesson. Her genuine positivity, and natural kind demeanor will certainly be an asset to FCE. Nicole is a well-rounded horsewoman with nearly two decades of experience. She is passionate about teaching new riders in a safe, encouraging, and systematic fashion. She looks forward to sharing the “building blocks” that allow her riders to progress at a natural pace. Nicole has been the Lead Veterinary Technician at Aspetuck Animal Hospital in New Preston, CT for many years. She prides herself on creating a positive customer experience wherever she teaches. She looks forward to working with riders of all ages during weeky lessons & summer camp.
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Justine Fairbarn
Justine started her love of horses as a young child. She participated in multiple horse shows around New England from local to Big “A” competitions. In High School and college, she studied equine management and child psychology. She graduated with an associate’s degree enabling her to work with special needs and young adults. Over the last 17 years, she has competed personally throughout New England, Vermont and Florida. She has been a riding instructor, trainer, and enjoyed riding at multiple barns in Fairfield County and the Westchester, NY area. Justine enjoys teaching riding lessons to all levels of riders. Her focus is on developing riders to grow and learn in a safe friendhy environment. We are so lucky to have her talent at FCE and feel you will be too!
Meet the Lesson Horses
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Bella
“Bella” is a 13.1H Welsh pony mare. A proven show pony she is safe, quiet, and educated. Loves to teach “learn to treat” lessons and is ideal for beginners.
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Doran the San Man
“Doran” is truly the man! A 15.3H registered quarter horse he is used for total beginners on up — Retired in 2023 from the show ring. The same reliable guy daily he is hands down a true favorite!
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Little Joe
“LJ” is a 13.2 Hand Paint Gelding. This gem of a pony has done it all from teach lead line and walk trotters to jump and take riders over an event course. The best learning canter and just an all-around super pony!
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I Only Date Foxes
“Taco” is a true steady eddy! He is a 15H Red Roan, Quarter Horse cross that will give riders confidence to advance quickly and is super easy to handle in the barn. Never spooky, kind to other horses and loves to end a ride bareback.
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King of Color
“King” may be the youngest pony at FCE but is absolutely one of the safest guys around. This 14H POA has a stunning blanket and is just the sweetest on the ground and under the saddle. Definitely a barn favorite! SOLD
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Cappuccino
Complete barn favorite “Cappy” a 13.2H gelding pony is the perfect packer to learn on. 100% Mom Approved!
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Amazing Grace
“Gracie is a 14.2H Welsh/Qtr Pony cross. She is super easygoing and a very nice moving girl. Sweet and honest she is the pony everyone looks forward to riding! SOLD
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Beau
“Beau” is a medium grey, welsh pony gelding with a winning personality. He does it all and does it well. Easy to learn to ride on, slow rhythmic trot, nice canter, and an overall great teacher!
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Bode
“Bode” is a 16.1H Bay TB gelding that enjoys all the perks of being loved on! A super equitation mount with a big stride and comfy gate.
RETIRED
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Oh Diego
Completely bombproof, “Diego” is an attractive 16.1H, chestnut QH gelding. His resume and forgiving nature make him a super teacher and an easy guy to love. LEASED
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Keeping it Simple
Simple and easy in every way, “Windsor,” a 16.2H Quarter Horse is a special guy! He is laid back to ride and handle in the barn. He is always polite and loves to go around on a loose rein if you let him.
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Dixie
“Dixie” is a 14H chestnut pony that has been there, done that! This is the IDEAL mount to learn to walk trot and canter on. She is forgiving, comfortable, and a true teacher. SOLD
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Redford
A perfect mount for all levels “Red” a 15H QH gelding is the go-to for riders looking to do it all at FCE. Lessons, Horse shows, IEA, and hacks he is a rockstar.
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Ticketoutahere
“Ticket” is a 16H Grey TB classy, mare that will keep you safe under the saddle and teach you how to ride. Quiet as can be and kind to all she is the perfect horse for all levels of riders.
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Manchester
“Manny” is a 16H Registered Appendix Gelding with mileage up to the 2’6” and loves to teach riders in the Hunter and Equitation ring. Super straightforward he is a delight to ride!
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Wayland
“Wayland” a 16H Westphalian WB Gelding is a true schoolmaster and a wonderful horse for all levels of riders. He has spent many years with us at FCE teaching individual lessons, IEA, and participating in horse shows.
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Cozy Cardigan
“Chloe” a 14.2H Qtr Pony cross — joined FCE after spending the last few years at another local farm doing lessons and IEA horse shows. Her steady ride under saddle has made her an immediate barn favorite! LEASED
Meet the Leasing Horses
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II Est Beau
“Beau” is a medium grey, welsh pony gelding with a winning personality. He does it all and does it well. Easy to learn to ride on, slow rhythmic trot, nice canter, and an overall great teacher! Leased through February 2023
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Crevanwood Martina
“Martina” is a gorgeous, medium, black welsh pony mare that loves to be seen in the show ring. She has been there, done that, and loves to give the young rider the confidence to not only trot and canter but could also compete in the short stirrup division. Available for lease March 2023
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Rickroll
“Duke” is a Bay Warmblood Gelding and is a true hunk! Easy to fall in love with, he is perfectly suited for an amateur to ride in the Equitation and Jumper ring. SOLD
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Horta Van de Swytzwyl
“Horton” is a 17H Belgian Warmblood that is would be an amazing addition to any equitation rider looking to excel in the horse show ring. He builds confidence and allows riders to work on their skills in both the equitation and jumper ring. Leased through September 2024
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Kalioppe
“Kali” is a 17H grey stunning TB mare. She does it all and she does it well! Good looks are just the beginning of this girl’s talents. SOLD
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Nut Des Forets
“Peanut” a 16H Selle Francais Gelding is one of those “one of a kind” packer-type horses. A barn favorite he is easy-going, consistent, and has a huge heart. Peanut has a long show history and truly loves to do it all. Leased through September 2024
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Presidential
“Prez” is a top-of-the-line, large, welsh pony gelding. This sweet, gentle, and beautiful show pony is patient and loving and enjoys teaching the short stirrup rider their first jump. Leased through September 2024
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Obsidian
“Sid” is just the ultimate guy. A 16.2H Oldenburg Gelding is everyone’s favorite. Kind, willing, and agreeable – he is the absolute best! Leased through September 2024
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Lagerfeld
“Beau” is a stunning Black 17H Mecklenburg Gelding. A huge show career has provided Beau the groundwork to teach any rider the ropes in the show ring. Leased through August 2023
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King of Spades
“Royal” is a Large Welsh-x pony that has always kept his rider safe. Just the right amount of go to help any rider learn to jump! Leased through September 2024
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The Great Zar
“Zar” is a gorgeous 16.3H Dutch Warmblood gelding with an extensive show record and eager to teach riders the ropes in the equitation ring. Leased through February 2023
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Roaring Run Blue Bandoleer
“Lulu” is a been-there-done that medium grey welsh pony mare. She is sweet, honest, and is auto everything. Leased through March 2024
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Stay and Play
“Andrew” is a medium bay pony gelding. A special boy, always willing and loves to bond with his rider. Leased through August 2023
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Sorprendido
“Brady” is a 16.2H handsome Bay Argentinian Warmblood Gelding. A true definition of a good-looking equitation horse that loves to horse show and be loved. Leased through August 2023
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Emerald City
“Dorothy.” Description coming soon. Leased
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Caramel Delite
“Deli.” Description coming soon. Leased
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For Your Consideration
“Tess.” Description coming soon. Leased
