Just tried to post but it's gone! So had to rewrite..
Would you buy a 4yr old pony for a child (9)? I've got horsey experience and both kids have/have had loans, however not experienced with youngsters so am torn between thinking it's a great idea - they can learn and develop together, or it's going to be a disaster and she'll lose faith/confidence if things go wrong.
What can I expect with taking on a very quiet, backed, and ridden (3 paces & jump) but green pony?
She's a sympathetic, but determined rider but lacks physicality (short little legs) and some discipline, ie she doesn't always ride with purpose and could happily pootle around. I'm hopeful new pony could show her that she needs to up her riding game but I don't know if I'm living in a dreamland because aside from being young, seems an absolute gem, and I'm worried I could search for months and have to spend big £ to get something established with potentially the odd bad habit as none are truly perfect.
We've had a viewing and it went well, she had instant love for this one that we've never experienced before - I'm trying to think rationally but this aspect is making it harder!
Any wisdom from people who have brought on youngsters?