Has anyone ever done these before? I know some schools will do field trips for them, but I wondered about private lessons. I figure they are a little pricey, but I am trying to do some research for a friend interested in her two children to start next year. Thanks!

Lessons here are $15 an hour. They teach everything from care and maintenence, equipment care, as well as riding. I will be putting my two girls in lessons this May. It's too cold before then.
Look for lessons that teach everything, not just the fun parts. Also, make sure they know how to teach children, not just adults. The lessons will be more enjoyable for all involved.

I do not think that lessons are pricey at all-it is what the lessons might lead to, as in the person wanting to own a horse after a while, that is pricey. But I wouldn't let that stop you from at least learning.

I have seen some private lessons that can be pricey, it may depend on what they are training them for. There is a difference between pleasure riding, and trying to train to race. The latter might be were you are finding steeper prices.

My neighbor gave lessons all of my childhood years. I believe she charged $20 an hour for them. She always was busy and she would host shows for her riders and the kids would feel so special. She was great.