How to Paddleboard with your Kids
HOW TO PADDLEBOARD WITH YOUR KIDS
Follow these detailed guide for a safe and enjoyable paddleboarding adventure with your little ones:
Step 1: Ensure Water Safety
Before heading out, ensure that your kids are comfortable in the water and have basic swimming skills. Consider enrolling them in swimming lessons if needed. It's crucial that everyone wears a properly fitting life jacket.
Step 2: Choose the Right Gear
Selecting the right gear is essential for a successful paddleboarding trip. Our inflatable stand up paddle boards for Kids are perfect for children, featuring wide and stable designs that make balancing easy. The boards are made from durable materials and are lightweight, making them ideal for family adventures on the water. Additionally, consider investing in a kid-sized paddle to ensure they can paddle comfortably.
Step 3: Start in Calm Waters
Begin your paddle boarding journey in calm and shallow waters, such as lakes, calm bays, or gentle rivers. Avoid areas with strong currents or rough waves, especially when paddling with young children or beginners. Check local regulations and ensure you have permission to paddle in the chosen area.
Step 4: Teach Paddle Board Basics
Before hitting the water, teach your kids the basics of paddle boarding on land. Show them how to stand on the board with knees slightly bent for stability, hold the paddle correctly (blade facing away from them), and use smooth strokes to move through the water. Practice balancing and turning to build confidence and familiarity with the equipment.
Step 5: Practice Falling and Getting Back Up
Falling into the water is part of the paddleboarding experience, especially for beginners. Teach your kids how to fall safely into the water away from the board to avoid injuries. Show them how to climb back onto the board using the handle or sides, starting from the back of the board and moving towards the center. Practice these skills in a controlled environment to build resilience and confidence.
Step 6: Explore Together
Once everyone is comfortable on the paddle boards, embark on a journey to explore the water together. Point out interesting landmarks, wildlife, and natural features along the way. Encourage curiosity and learning by discussing the ecosystem and marine life you encounter. Bring along a waterproof guidebook or map to enhance the learning experience.
Step 7: Stay Safe
Safety should always be a priority during outdoor activities. Pack essential safety gear such as sunscreen, water, a first aid kit, and a whistle for emergencies. Keep an eye on weather conditions and avoid paddling in extreme weather or rough waters. Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed, especially on hot days.
Step 8: Have Fun!
Above all, enjoy the experience and have fun! Paddleboarding with your kids is a fantastic way to bond as a family and create lasting memories. Take plenty of photos, play games like paddle races or scavenger hunts, and encourage creativity and imagination on the water.
Conclusion
Paddleboarding with your kids is a fantastic way to foster a love for the outdoors, build physical skills, and create cherished family memories. By ensuring water safety, choosing the right gear, and practicing in calm waters, you can make paddle boarding an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone. Remember to explore together, stay safe, and most importantly, have fun!
For those ready to dive deeper into the world of paddle boarding, be sure to check out our guide, "How to Choose the Best Paddleboard for Your Kid: A Comprehensive Guide". This guide will provide you with all the information you need to select the perfect paddleboard for your child, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
At Newell Outdoors, we're here to support your family's outdoor adventures with high-quality gear and expert advice. Happy paddling!
