How to Teach Kids to Kayak

When embarking on a kayaking adventure, bring your kids along. Teaching your kids the proper kayaking technique will ensure they remain safe throughout your weekend voyage. The Idaho State University Outdoor Program recommends holding a short orientation to identify the various components of the kayak. (See References 1) When instructing your beginner kayaking class, locate a calm body of water with a minimal amount of currents. You can even use a local swimming pool to help alleviate the anxiety of the students.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray skirt
  • Paddle
  • Helmet
  • Life jacket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Instruct your kids to assemble around your kayak. Identify the grab loops, the rim of the cockpit, the seat and the foot pegs. Demonstrate how to enter the cockpit and sit with your back against the seat.

    • 2

      Assist your kids in securing the nylon spray skirt around their waist. Instruct your kids to enter the kayak one at a time. Demonstrate how to fasten the spray skirt around the rib of the cockpit.

    • 3

      Show your kids how to hold the paddle horizontally above the kayak. Instruct your kids to spread their hands shoulder length apart to ensure a balanced paddling technique. Demonstrate how to put the kayaking helmet on and fasten the safety straps under your chin.

    • 4

      Instruct your kids to put on a life jacket and show them how to fasten the buckles. Tighten the straps if necessary. Inform your kids to enter their kayaks and fasten the spray skirt in place.

    • 5

      Push the kayaks into a shallow body of water where you can stand and facilitate. Hold a paddle above the water to demonstrate the forward stroke. Insert one of the paddle blades into the water and instruct your kids to do the same.

    • 6

      Demonstrate how to pull the blade backwards to propel the kayak forward. Show your kids how to pull the loop of the spray skirt to release it during a wet exit. Capsize each of the kayak's slowly to teach your kid's how safely to perform a wet exit.