Bring The Kids?
So you want to go paddling but you are hesitant about bringing the kids. Whether you are going for an hour, a day trip or even a full weekend, here are a few tips to make your trip a successful one.
The most important thing is a PFD. Finding one that is comfortable for your child could be the difference between you making your trip or cutting out early. Proper clothing, sunscreen and safety equipment are always the no brainers you should have with you and your child. Don’t forget the snacks and drinks!
Picking the right paddle is very important even if they are not going to assist in the paddling. For an older child who helps with the paddling, getting the right size will help them paddle for a longer period of time. A paddle that is too large and heavy can be quite fatiguing, hence the whining and complaining will start early and may set the mood for the whole trip. Even if your child is not helping out with the paddling it is beneficial to have a token paddle for them to hold on to or “lily dip”. This will help them last for a longer period of time. I recommend using a paddle leash in case they drop it in the water. If they are sitting on the bottom of the hull, I highly recommend to have comfortable seat with plenty of back support.
Bring along activities to help keep your kids occupied. You can make this aseasy or as complicated as you want. A can of rocks for the kids to throw in the water, naming animals you see along the journey or bringing a fishing pole for them to use. You are only limited by your imagination and the size of your boat. And don’t forget to sing a little row, row, row your boat!
Prepping your child is one of the easiest things you can do. Get them pumped for the trip and explain all the things you will be doing. Depending on your child this can be done the day before or just before your paddle. Let them help you pack and carry some of the gear. Kids love to help! The more involved they are the more excited they will become.
These few tricks have worked really well for us while canoeing, kayaking, camping or any activity we may want to do. Now the only complaining we hear is when the trip is over and most of it is coming from us. Jenda has all the essentials to outfit your child for any paddling trip, from PFDs and paddles to their very own kayak. So next time you come to visit, bring the whole family!
Jason & Lori
Jenda PaddleSports
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