Kayaking for Kids: All You Need to Know To Get Them Interested & On The Water

Getting kids to try new things can be hard. But if it’s fun, kids are willing to give anything a go. And when it comes to water sports, they are always willing to make a big splash. That’s why kayaking is the perfect activity to get them interested in.

Kayaking is a fun way for the kids to enjoy the water and get some exercise. It’s a great way to bond with them and teach them a few new skills. It also builds their physical muscle strength and teaches them to be confident in the aquatic environment. Therefore, as a parent, you should encourage your kids to go kayaking. Imagine what it will be to take a family kayaking trip!

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Getting Kids Interested in Kayaking

First, here are 6 ways to get your kids interested in kayaking. Then I’ll share how to teach kids the basics of kayaking so they can get started right away.

Method 1: Incentivize Kayaking for Kids

Every kid loves presents. They get excited to see what’s in the package. So, one way to get them interested in kayaking is to offer them an incentive. For example, if they go out kayaking with you, you can promise them a new paddle, life jacket, other kayaking gear, or trip to the ice cream store. This will definitely get them excited.

You can also offer them a prize if they complete a certain challenge while kayaking. For instance, you can give them a sticker or certificate if they paddle for a set time. This will not only motivate them to try kayaking but also to stay active and fit.

When buying new outdoor gear, be sure to choose gear wisely. For example, if you are buying a new kayak for your kid, get one that is designed specifically for kids. This will ensure that they are comfortable and safe while kayaking. When it comes to life vests and other safety gear, make sure that they fit properly. Also, be sure to get gear that is age and size appropriate.

To purchase the best kayaking items, surf through some gifts for kayakers online. It will help you find the right kayaking gear for your kid. 

Method 2: Tell Them Stories

Stories are something that children always get hooked on. They enjoy a story as if they’re experiencing every moment of it.  So, another way to get your kids interested in kayaking is to tell them stories about your personal experiences.

Let your child know how adventurous kayaking can get. And if you have a fun story of your own, share the story. You can tell them about the time when you went on a long kayaking trip and saw amazing wildlife. Stories can motivate your child to try kayaking on his own after hearing about those great adventures and the enjoyment people have had while kayaking.

But if you think your kid doesn’t like things to be too adventurous, tell them more gentle tales. You can tell them about the time when you went kayaking at sunset and saw the most gorgeous colors in the sky. You can also narrate to them how you went fishing from your kayak and caught a lot of fish. Whatever story you choose, make sure it’s one that will interest your kid and make him want to go kayaking himself.

If you don’t have any personal kayaking stories, look online for some interesting ones. You can even find some bedtime stories about kayaking that your kid will love hearing before going to sleep.

Method 3: Take Your Kids to Kayaking Spots

Visit some local kayaking spots with your kids to let them see how this activity works in real life. It will allow him to observe others who are already enjoying kayaking and be eager to experience this water sport. 

Another reason this can inspire your kids to kayak is that it lets them see firsthand the beauty and serenity of nature from being on the water. It allows them to explore and learn about different types of kayaking experiences. 

So make sure to give the nearby kayaking sites a visit. Family-friendly kayaking locations are usually available in almost every state. You can find them by searching online or through word-of-mouth from people who love kayaking. Take your kid to one of those and let him decide whether he would want to try out kayaking or not.

Method 4: Show Them How You Do It

Children are always eager to learn from their parents. They love to watch how their parents make things work and are more likely to try if they see their parents doing it.

So the next step you will want to try to inspire your kids to kayak is showing them how you do it. Take them out on the water with you and let them see how easy it is to paddle and maneuver. Show them how much fun it can be to relish nature while moving around on the water. This way, you’ll likely inspire them to want to kayak on their own.

Kayaking with kids is a fantastic family activity that also ensures a wonderful workout. So help your kids understand this before they get started on kayaking.

Method 5: Get Your Kids Started Kayaking

Sometimes the most effective way to encourage someone to do anything is to get them out trying it for themselves. It means you’ll have to put them in charge of the situation and let them get to work. Remember, until a person has his own experiences, they will not feel the urge to engage in the activity. You will have to treat your children in the same way.

Allow your children to participate in a kayaking adventure rather than just having them tag along. Teach them to control the kayak independently, including how to paddle and maneuver. Inform them about the techniques that can make kayaking an effortless sporting activity.

If you’re not comfortable allowing your child to kayak on their own just yet, there are kayaks designed for two people. You can take your kid on a tandem kayak and let him experience how great it is to paddle with someone else. This can be an exciting bonding moment for both of you while still enjoying the outdoors.

Keep in mind that any child above six or seven can begin kayaking. Therefore, as parents, you’re responsible for providing them with the finest kayaking gear and encouraging them to start. 

Method 6: Enlighten Them About Its Benefits

Kayaking, as previously noted, is not only a fun water sport but a practical approach for boosting our physical stamina and ability to accommodate aquatic surroundings. Aside from that, it allows kids to spend valuable time together with their families in nature, which strengthens their bond much more effectively.

Make sure to highlight these points to your kids before they go kayaking. Also, remind them that it is a fantastic chance to get away from technology for a while and appreciate the real world around them.

These advantages of kayaking will encourage your kids to take kayaking lessons more. It will help them acknowledge the need to practice kayaking just as they practice other water sports.

How to Teach Your Kids to Kayak

As a parent, you can get your kids started kayaking and inspire them to pursue the activity independently. It’s a great way to bond with your children while teaching them about nature and physical fitness. Here are some tips on how to get started:

Choose the Right Kayak

There are different types of kayaks designed for various purposes. If you’re just starting, picking a kayak suitable for your child’s age, weight, and height is critical. You can opt for a single or a double kayak. If you choose a double/tandem kayak, make sure it has enough space for both you and your child. You’ll want to check the kayak’s stability and how easy it is to maneuver.

If you aren’t ready to buy a kayak, you can always rent one. This is a great way to test out different types of kayaks and find the perfect one for your family.

Get the Proper Equipment

In addition to a kayak, you’ll need a paddle and a life jackets (personal floating device). Make sure the life jacket fits properly and is comfortable for your child. 

Water shoes, water bottle, and a dry bag are also essential. Water shoes will protect your child’s feet from sharp rocks or shells when entering/exiting the water. A water bottle is crucial to prevent dehydration, while a dry bag will keep your child’s belongings safe and dry. 

If you and your child will be doing sea kayaking, you may also want to carry a helmet and gloves. Be sure to check if the helmet fits correctly and that the gloves provide a good grip.

Teach Paddling Skills

Before setting in your own kayak for the first time, start by teaching your child on land. Have your child sit in the middle of the kayak. Explain how to hold the paddle and stroke correctly. Show them how to keep their upper body still and use their legs and hips to rotate.

Once they’ve mastered the basic paddling strokes, you can move on to advanced techniques. These include turning, stopping, and edging the kayak. Once you child is confident with these skills, they’ll be ready to hit the water.

Start in Shallow Water

When you’re both ready, find a calm body of water with little to no waves. You may want to start in a swimming pool or a shallow lake. This will help your child get used to the kayak and feel more comfortable before venturing into deeper water.

Make sure to stay close by in case your child tips over or needs help. You can also hold on to the kayak to provide stability. As your child becomes more confident, you can move into deeper water. Remember to go at your child’s pace and always keep safety in mind.

Practice Safety

Safety should always be your top priority when kayaking with children. Teach your kids about common hazards and how to avoid them. For example, they should know to watch out for low-hanging branches, waves, and currents.

It’s also essential to have a plan in case someone falls out of the kayak. Agree on a signal, such as raising one arm in the air, that everyone will use if they need help.

Make sure to always wear life jackets and stay close to shore when starting out. As you become more comfortable, you can venture further away from land. It’s also a good idea to carry a first aid kit in the adult kayak.

Find a Good Location

Kayaking is best done in calm waters with little to no boat traffic. Look for small lakes or rivers with little to no current. Young children will feel more at ease and assured in the kayak. He will then be easily able to paddle while staying in control of the kayak.

Start Slowly and Build Up Stamina 

Don’t try to cover too much ground on his first outing. Instead, focus on paddling around in a small area. This will give your child a chance to get used to the kayak and learn how to paddle correctly. As he gets more comfortable, you can venture out further.

Be sure to pack a tow rope in case your child gets tired. This way, you or a family member can tow the kayak back to shore from open water if needed.

Remember to take breaks often, especially in warmer climates. This will prevent heat exhaustion and allow your child to rest his arms. This will allow your child to rest and drink water to prevent dehydration. Kayaking is a great workout, so it’s important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed

Be sure to pack snacks and lunch so you can have a picnic on the shore. This will give your child a chance to explore and play while you take a break from kayaking.

Be Prepared for Weather Conditions 

Always check the forecast before heading out on your kayaking trip. If it looks like it might rain or a strong wind might strike, it’s best to wait for another day. Paddling in bad weather conditions is dangerous and can quickly turn your trip into a nightmare.

Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent to protect your child from the sun and bugs.

Lastly, remember to dress in layers. The temperature on the water can be different than on land. Wearing layers will ensure that your child is comfortable no matter the temperature.

Have Fun

Kayaking is supposed to be fun. So make sure you and your children are having fun. Don’t pass up this fantastic chance to get your kids rolling outside. If things start to feel too stressful, take a break or end the trip early.  

If your child learns well in a group setting, it may also be fun to join a kayaking class or camp. This will give him the opportunity to make new friends and learn from experienced kayakers.

In Summary

Kids these days are so lucky. They have access to many great outdoor activities we didn’t have when we were young. Now that you know the basics of kayaking for kids, it’s time to hit the water! Kayaking is not only enjoyable but also a great way of fitness practice. The best thing is that it is simple for children to learn. 

Therefore, you must motivate your kid to learn this exciting water sport. And to help you get started, this article brings you the six best ways to inspire your kids to kayak.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get started!

FAQs

How old should kids be before kayaking?

Any child who is at least six years old can start kayak training. Kids this age can easily comprehend the controls for a kayak’s navigation. And children between the ages of 9 and 11 can kayak on the lake for half a mile with ease.

However, taking children around four on several short kayaking trips is preferable. It enables them to develop the habit of kayaking beforehand.

Is it easy for kids to kayak?

Yes, it is easy for kids to kayak. With the proper instruction and supervision, kayaking can be a fun and safe activity for kids of all ages. 

What do I need to take my child kayaking?

In addition to a life jacket, paddle, and kayak, you will also need to bring sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, snacks, and water. It is also important to dress in layers so that your child will be comfortable no matter the temperature. 

Are inflatable kayaks worth the money?

Indeed. Inflatable kayaks are an excellent investment for kayakers. They are durable, lightweight, and easy to transport, making them perfect for days when you want to explore a new river or lake. Plus, they’re a lot of fun to paddle!  So if you’re looking for a kayak to provide you with years of enjoyment, an inflatable kayak is worth the investment.

What safety equipment should I take on a kayaking trip?

In addition to a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal floating device, you should also bring a whistle and a flashlight. These items will help you signal for help if you get lost or injured. When kayaking with young children or beginning paddlers, you should also consider bringing a tow strap and a paddle leash. These items will help you keep track of your kayak and paddle if they become separated from you.