How To Go Kayaking With Kids

By: Londongirl

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you enjoy paddling, you may be wondering how to go kayaking with kids. In many ways, the process is just the same as going with an adult. You will need to get the right gear for your kid, and you will need to teach your kid about paddling and dealing with situations like an overturned kayak. The key thing to remember is to be patient, go easy on them, and try to keep it fun. After all, kayaking is supposed to be a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy.

Supplies:

Kayak
Paddles & leashes
PFD

Use a kid friendly kayak. Tandem sit-on-top kayaks are often more kid friendly since they're roomier and easier to get in and out of. Also, it allows you the option of either kayaking with two adults (with the child in the middle) or one adult sitting in the back while the child sits up front (better for older kids).
Get a kids paddle. A good kayak shop will be able to help you properly size a paddle for your kid. Even if you have a young child seated between two adults (who will be doing most of the paddling), this can still be a good opportunity to teach your child to paddle.
Purchase a PFD (person flotation device) especially sized for your child. Like the paddle, a good kayak shop can help you get the right size PFD for your child.
Show your child how to do a forward stroke. At this point, this will be the only type of stroke your child needs to know, since you will be steering the kayak.
Teach your child what to do if the kayak capsizes. In shallow water that you can easily wade in, practice gently turning the kayaking over so that your child falls out of the kayak. Then simply turn the kayak back upright, and help your kids to practice climbing back on board the kayak.
Find some calm water where you and your kids can paddle. If you're unsure of a good spot, consult with the local kayak shop for information about good areas to paddle nearby.