Hobbies And Interests
Pony-opoly
Similar in concept to Monopoly, this game is for kids 5 to 8 years old. Instead of buying and trading real estate, children get "pony deeds," each of which shows a different pony. Deeds have interesting facts about each kind of pony represented. Instead of money, players are paid in treats and horseshoes. To get paid, a player must count out how many treats he is owed by tapping his "hoof" the correct number of times. If a player lands in the wrong place on the board, she gets sent back to the stable. But players who have a good round can trade high-hoofs (a high-5 for ponies) with other players. See the resources section to learn more about this game.
Musical Pony Chairs
This is a pony game that is fun for a pony club or other riding group. Arrange chairs in the middle of an arena or other fenced-in area. As with musical chairs, use one less chair than there are riders. While music plays, each rider walks or trots his horse in a large circle around the chairs. If there is plenty of room, he can also canter. Everyone should go at the same speed. The instant the music stops, each rider halts his horse and jumps off, then runs to the chairs and finds a seat. The rider left standing is out of the game, a chair is removed, and everyone remounts for another round. This continues until a single player remains seated. He is declared the winner.
Horse Isle
A fun and educational multiplayer online game, Horse Isle has both free and subscription versions. As of spring 2010, there are two games available: Horse Isle I for ages 8 and up, and Horse Isle II for ages 12 and up. This game is intended for children and avoids issues that might cause problems for younger players. Ponies never die, and there is no breeding or breeding terminology in the game. To play, participants travel around Horse Isle collecting horses and ponies, train them, then enter them in various competitions. Players can buy a ranch, purchase an island, and play mini-games by themselves or with other online players.