Horse Farm De La Capucine is a family-owned business located in St-Marc-sur-Richelieu in Montrgie, just 30 minutes from Montreal. All programs are developed in collaboration with a psycho-educator and the staff is qualified and certified by the Fdration questre du Qubec and Equine Canada. The farm welcomes children aged 4 to 17 for weekend farm days, educational days off school, and day camps during summer. A particular focus is placed on the individual development of each child through a personalized approach.
For adults or youth who are interested, the farm also offers personalized lessons during the week.
The history of Horse Farm De La Capucine dates back nearly 40 years, when Marie and Franois, both passionate about horses, decided to purchase their first horse named “Capucine” after taking a few years of riding lessons. They regularly practised this sport as a family with their son Pierre-Luc. Catherine and Nicolas were born into this environment and quickly developed the same passion for horses. At the age of 4, they began riding horses several times a week, eventually leading them to each have their own horse boarded in the Montreal region.
At the same time, the family began developing a small family breeding farm in the Appalachians where they owned a farm. With seven horses, the family, and their work, time quickly became scarce.
In 1995, Marie and Franois decided to acquire the current farm in St-Marc-sur-Richelieu to establish themselves and bring their horses together. The entire family continued to take weekly lessons. Marie, a graduate in psycho-education, then decided to create a stable with tailored programs for children. Drawing on her vast knowledge in the field, her experiences in stables with her children, and feedback from other parents, she developed an equestrian program adapted for children based on their age.
She also participated in many training programs, including in France, to refine her teaching methods for young children using tools such as vaulting to help children develop balance, flexibility, and confidence through a safe and fun activity.
Marie then developed the “6 Capucine Grades”, based on the European experience, as a precursor to the rider grades of the Fdration questre du Qubec. These grades provide children with regular achievable goals to develop their enjoyment, perseverance, autonomy, and passion for horses without the stress of official evaluations. Marie believes it is essential to pair horses and ponies that are suitable for the size of the children to facilitate better communication between the rider and horse team, all while prioritizing respect for the animal. Meanwhile, Pierre-Luc joined the team as a groomer, ensuring that the farm has an experienced and reliable person to care for the horses.