DD (now 6) has been doing lead-rein showing since she was 2.5 and yesterday did her first show off the lead rein (First Year First Ridden).
At many shows lead rein classes are split between lead rein (usually referring to plaited ponies) and M&M lead rein (for mountain and moorland ponies like Shetlands, Welsh Sec As which are not plaited).
In lead rein classes the child would normally wear a dark jacket (normally blue but black would be fine at a little show) whilst in M&M classes the child should wear tweed.
As we show in M&M classes (although sometimes just in LR at smaller shows) we wear matching jackets but this is only because we're keen!
The leader should always wear a hat though even at low levels and wear something suitable on your feet (not heels or trainers) - boots are fine at this time of year.
Ideally you'd have a leather lead rein rather than rope - see if you can borrow one if you don't have one - and this should be
attched to the noseband.
Your daughter should wear a plain cap cover -
ideally to match the jacket - and should wear gloves, ideally leather.
You will enter at the walk on the left rein - with your daughter riding as far away from you as comfortable for her - and you at the ponies shoulder, not dragging it.
They will get you to stop in one corner and get you to drop, one at a time, around the ring. Finish by standing square and both of you should bow to the judge at the same time (with a smile!).
When you've all done your "go round" then you will be called into line - either in judge's order or any order. Watch out for the steward at this point!
You will then come out of line in order and stand up square for the judge where they will inspect your pony from all angles and ask your daughter a few questions (how old child, how old pony etc) which should be answered cheerfully. Make sure when the judge looks at the pony from the front that you are standing out of the way so they can get a good look.
You will then do your "show". I'd recommend a simple figure of 8 to show off your pony a trot in both directions. Do not make it overlong and stand square and salute at the end. Whatever you do don't let him canter!
You will then go back into line and when all done you'll walk around and then be called back in order to receive your rosette.
Wishing you the best of luck, have fun and let us know how you get on!
If you've any questions please ask!