6 yo rider going backwards

[HornungTheHelpful]

My 6 yo son has been riding on and off for two years. In the last 6 weeks or so he’s started to go backwards: is scared of the pony, doesn’t want to ride, can’t do rising trot. I’m at a loss. He rides own pony at home with me or with instructor. Nothing has happened. He’s just started being like this. Any ideas? I’ve got him some padded pants as think it may be that but not convinced (and they haven’t turned up yet). Anything else you think might be going on? He loves looking after the pony and being round him on the ground. It’s the riding

I understand what you're saying about perseverance and not quitting. But he is only 6. This is your hobby. He may love it or it might not be for him. Don't force it.

Fwiw dd had a blip about riding. Still loved being on the ground and around the ponies, but backed off the riding. I just let her be with them. Lots of ground work including grooming and working with them on the lead rein. Then got her scrambling on and off bareback, walking round the yard bareback etc. Exercises in the saddle. Was a few months before she was back as before. 2 years on she loves it.

I had a long think about who the riding was for. It needed to be for her, not me.