Post by Calaminty Jane on Feb 27, 2008 10:47:57 GMT -5
I've been cleaning out some old emails and came across this. Though some might find it interesting. Often someone will ask me how to get rid of pinny ears and attitude. The answer quite often is.... you are staying in one place too long. Your horse is getting bored. But more often.... you are doing more than necessary. Using the tail of your rope or stick when the horse is already doing what was asked. Sort of like telling your husband to take the trash out when its already in his hand. The tail or stick is to support the request ... but only if you need it. Also, using the stick as the request without clear direction. This is my understanding of Pat steps in teaching.
Teaching = exaggerating, 3 seconds per phase, rewarding the slightest try...
Controlling = Using what your horse has learned to control him. Blocking, yo-yo's, lateral flexion, disengaging. ../be more particular.
Reinforcing= Phases 2 and 3 get quicker, asking for more and more. Rewarding positive responses.
Refining=Opposite of exaggerating. Lightness. Communication with the horse becomes invisible to on-lookers.
When I first got into PNH, I was told that in Level 1 you learn the 7 games. It should take 30-60 days. Level 2 was all about getting the 7 Games better on the ground and under saddle completed by year 2. Level 3 was about getting the 7 Games right. Might take another year or 2. So in 3-4 years, you would be ready for Level 4.
First you were TEACHING your horse.... long phases. Exaggerating. . Reward the slightest try..Little pieces. Next you are CONTROLLING. Time for building confidence for you and your horse. Use blocking, yo-yo, lateral flexion and disengaging. You begin to be more particular. Then REINFORCING. Your phases are quicker...you are more assertive..you' re looking for a response with respect without fear. Asking for more, longer, quicker etc. Rewarding positive reflex. Finally, REFINING the opposite of exaggerating, lightness, communication with the horse becomes invisible to on-lookers.. These 4 steps that Pat teaches can be used at any level. Neither you or your horse can learn if your not always stepping out of your comfort zone. Take the yo yo game. Lets say you're just beginning level 2. Your horse can go to the end of the 12 ft with phase 1 or 2. Time to go to the 22 ft and ask for more. Maybe none of the other games are ready for the 22 ft. and won't be for a while. Move ahead where you can. Just stay a that comfort zone for a short while. Then take a deep breath and push the edge.
Since I've been really active in the program (2001) I've seen many people stay in level 1 for a long time trying to get the games good or right. What they didn't realize was the information they needed to help them was in level 2 and 3. Its like they are trying to read at a high school level when the only book they have is thingy and Jane. Pat and Linda try to give the information when they think your ready. Remember, this program has to work for "carrot people" and "stick people" , people with their first horse, people who have ridden all their life.....and everything in between. Pretty hard task don't you think?
Don't ever be afraid to ask questions and to try. It never has to be perfect. Good Thing..... cause it won't be. Everyone started at the beginning. We all struggle at a different level.
Carol