In the lively state of Louisiana, where the mighty Mississippi River meets the boisterous blues, there's a mirthful gang of kids known as the Giddy-Up Gang. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the sleepy bayous of Cajun country, the whole state buzzes with their adventurous tales. Now, these aren't your ordinary kids, oh no! These youngsters look at life from a taller perspective, quite literally, as they spend their days horseback riding. Their leader, a quirky character named Lulu 'Lasso' Lafitte, is a 10-year-old with pigtails that dart out like a crawfish's antennae. Lulu, with her high-spirited maroon mare, Jambalaya, leads the Giddy-Up Gang in their thrilling horseback escapades. Lulu's laugh is as infectious as a Mardi Gras parade, and she has a funny knack of misplacing her glasses, often finding them on Jambalaya's snout! Riding through the marshy swamps, the sunflower fields, or along the sandy Mississippi banks, these kids create a ruckus that even the alligators can't ignore. They play pranks, like putting Tabasco sauce in the horse's water (don't worry, the horses seem to love the spicy kick!), or hosting hilarious jousting tournaments with baguettes instead of lances. In Louisiana, life is a blend of vibrant cultures, spicy foods, and foot-tapping music. And for the Giddy-Up Gang, this rich, lively setting becomes their playground. Every day is a new adventure in the saddle, exploring their beloved state, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a whole lot of horseplay. So, if you hear the sound of galloping hooves and children's laughter floating on the warm southern breeze, you know the Giddy-Up Gang is nearby, off on another joyful jaunt.
Read morebest horse-back programs in Abbeville, LA
Give your child the opportunity to learn a unique Olympic sport while building confidence, focus, coordination, discipline, and strategic thinking at ALLE Fencing Club in Fort Lauderdale. ALLE Fencing Club specializes in saber fencing and welcomes students from beginners discovering the sport for the first time to experienced young athletes preparing for regional and national competitions. Youth beginner classes introduce children ages 6–12 to the fundamentals of fencing, including saber handling, footwork, distance control, fencing etiquette, sportsmanship, coordination, focus, and basic rules. Junior programs are available for ages 12+ and help students progress toward competitive fencing. With experienced coaches and a supportive training environment, students develop both physical and mental skills while learning a sport that challenges them to think quickly, move confidently, and make strategic decisions. Advanced and Elite programs provide additional training for experienced fencers interested in tournaments and high-level competition. ALLE Fencing Club also offers private lessons for personalized instruction and skill development, as well as beginner-focused fencing camps that combine fencing activities with teamwork, confidence-building, focus, and fun.
Summer camp is the perfect way for heart children ages 7 - 16 to have an unforgettable experience. Each June, about 45 campers from across the state and nation come together to explore the best that camp has to offer, including horseback riding, swimming, heart class, sports, art, canoeing, and archery. Campers can make lifelong friends while having a blast in a safe and supportive environment. Parents, if you’re looking for a great way to bond with your family, consider attending Family Camp with other families of children with CHDs. Held each January, Family Camp is a CBC favorite, and provides an opportunity for families to meet others in similar situations, create a support network, and enjoy family bonding and fun. Summer camp and Family Camp are a great way for heart children and their families to make memories, create connections, and enjoy the great outdoors. CBC offers these opportunities each June and January, respectively, so be sure to check them out!