Asking parents for permission to work at a stable...?

Question

I want to work at a stable soon, maybe when the weather gets nicer. I'm a healthy, strong 12-year-old who's turning 13 in a little more than a month. My problem is that I'm a little nervous to ask my parents, even though it won't cost anything. How can I gently ask my parents for permission?

Another question is how to go about looking for a suitable stable. I've been donig some online checking but haven't found one that sparks my interest. How do I go about looking for a stable to ask about and to contact?

Yes, I meant volunteer. Sorry for the confusion!

Answer 1

At your age, I'd try and get an "in" with a stable by taking lessons. Once they know you and see that you are willing to work and are responsible (and not just going to screw around) they will be more likely to let you hang out. That's actually how I got started. I took lessons, then gradually had my parents pick me up later and later, then they started dropping me off earlier and earlier. The barn staff were cool, my friend and I did a lot of things to help them. We groomed school horses, cleaned tack, pulled manes, and eventually got to exercise horses that needed it. I gained enough experience to be able to get a grooming job at another barn at 14.

As far as asking your parents, I'd just do it. Most parents would be proud that their child wants to take on the responsibility of a job. Good luck.

Answer 2

Before you look for a stable, talk to your parents. Sparking your interest isn't the problem here. Your parents are. Running a stable for many years, 13 year old girls were common but not particularlly wanted. Talk to your folks, just come out and tell them. They may know friends or co workers who have horses boarded and can refer you. The stable you choose, may not choose you. Insurance these days does not permit anyone under the age of 16 to work unless workpapers are provided. Even then, most will not allow anyone under 16 work around animals. Check your local area. Also, your school should have a list of those interested in having shoolage children working for them.

Good luck.

Answer 3

In Canada and the US, you need to be 14 to legally work.

You may be able to volunteer, but not sure how many stables will take you, unless you have extensive horse experience.

If your parents agree, the best thing to do would be to go to the stables personally and talk to the owners/managers. As in most jobs, that is the best way to impress.

As far as your parents go, why are you nervous? You can always take on extra chores without your parents asking, to prove you are responsible.

Answer 4

Do your parents know that you're safe around horses? If not, make a deal with them. You'll volunteer for a month, and if anything happens you'll wait until you're 16. If they already know you're safe around horses, I don't think it would be a problem.