positive reinforcement mini-workshop
This workshop is designed to teach horses and people how to get started with R+ (positive reinforcement) from the very beginning, as well as the possible next steps for using those skills in the real world. It’s for both horses and people who are completely new to R+ and open to learning a different way to look at training, or for people who have tried it, but weren't successful and their horses tried to eat them instead. When used correctly, it’s a tool for communication that accelerates learning. However, even if you never use R+ in your daily training, this workshop offers a low-commitment, small-scale look at the skills involved in the interaction between horse and human. You will learn about:
Introduction
- how positive reinforcement works
- things to keep in mind when getting started
Your mechanics
- how you move and your awareness of your body
- the first pattern to teach the horse
- how speed, timing, and emotional content affect your horse's ability to learn
Two basic skills
- stand still, face forward
- touch a target
- how to use the skills and the concept of shaping other behaviors
When it's not working
- what the horse is telling you
- what to do about it
You will need:
- an open mind and a sense of humor
- a horse, if you want to participate
- a shallow, wide feed tub for your horse
- hay pellets, either timothy or alfalfa. If your horse is a really picky eater, you can bring whatever feed you use on a daily basis. Please don't bring really yummy, actual "treats" (this might not work in your favor).
- some sort of bag, satchel, fanny pack/bum bag, etc. that you can put hay pellets in and hang on your body, so your hands are free - hands-free and easy access are very important!
I will provide:
- a short lecture on the concepts and skills we'll work on
- target stick of some sort (probably a flyswatter)
- hopefully comedic entertainment
Food pouch
Easy access opening on top, and a loop for a belt on the back for hands-free carrying. This one holds about 7 cups.
Hay pellets
Either timothy or alfalfa, and a feed tub. Commercial treats might be too much of a distraction. We use food, but it's not the focus!
Flyswatter target
May not always be a fun hand shape, but it's a great start for teaching a horse how to touch a target.
Cost for this workshop is $50/pair for a 30-minute one-on-one session for up to 6 people with horses, and $25/person for auditors. This works best if the horses are able to be loose without a halter/leadrope, however handlers know their horses best and horse and handler safety should come first.
Want to know more?
Here is a little e-book I wrote on starting positive reinforcement training (click HERE to download). It's free, with no strings attached. It's everything I like new clients to know when considering working with me. I'm happy to answer questions!
