Getting Started

April-May 2002

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: > DOWNLOAD

by Chris Ladner

Chris Ladner and family in their double Feathercraft. Photo: Ecomarine

Kids love to be in a kayak. It's a wonderful experience for them to be on the water, seeing animals in their natural environment.

Start with a short experience of an hour or two. Try renting some kayaks for an afternoon on a calm day. But both parents need to be comfortable paddling as kids will pick up on the tense vibes if you feel out of your element. Gain some confidence through comprehensive lessons that include basic strokes, capsize recoveries, chart reading, navigation and weather interpretation. On the water, be sure to let the kids dictate the pace and duration. Make an effort to point out the reasons for being there: seeing birds, listening to the quiet, feeling the ocean underneath you, being together, having fun, and so much more.

EQUIPMENT

There are many kayaks suited for families. Doubles are the safest and easiest. Some come with a center hatch capable of seating a small child or even two. Larger cockpit single kayaks can accommodate an adult and small child, but this requires more parental paddling skill and would be awkward for the long haul. Kid-specific kayaks are also available but may only fit for a few years. Another route is a smaller adult boat they never need to trade in.

From a couple of months old to about three years, kids can be in the front cockpit of a double with one parent, while the other parent steers and provides propulsion. From about three to seven, they can be in the middle cockpit of a double. From about seven to twelve they can be alone in the front of a double. From twelve on they can be in their own kayak for short trips, after proper training.

Having a kid in your lap in a wider single with a longer cockpit is possible if they weigh less than 25 lbs. A Stacey skirt with two tubes is available for the parent/kid team. Practice with it. The criteria for a kid to have a sprayskirt is the ability to release it under their own initiative.

Putting a kid in the back hatch of a single works. The back hatch is great place for kids to fish from and sleep. But there's no sprayskirt, so you'll need to monitor them.

Any time you're needing the kids to provide provide power, their stamina is great at the beginning -but be prepared for rapid burnout. This means having to tow their kayak or, in a double, be ready for a workout.

Kid-sized paddles work in the front of a double or in their own kayak, but the middle section of a double is too wide.

Personal Floatation Devices for kids are available in 20-30 lbs, 30-60 lbs. and 60- 90 lbs. When kids get older they want to be seen in an adult PFD. Any kid's jacket must fit, function and be comfortable.

ENTERTAINMENT TOOLS

Keeping kids entertained in the kayak is the secret to success. You will need to fill your tool box with small things that float, songs, jokes, stories... well, you know the routine. Planning your departure around nap time is a good idea. Keep travel time to less than three hours. Have some contingency plans for stops. Check the charts to plan ahead.

Nature interpretation is an asset for both you and the kids. Creating enthusiasm for intertidal life and sea creatures will stand you in good stead for years to come.

Have lots of snacks and drinks ready. Put an extra life jacket on the floor of the cockpit for them to lie down for naps and for you to get some lap relief.

Small aquarium nets, magnifying glasses, and clear lexan containers with wide mouth screw lids are great for mini-aquariums and ideal for carrying home mementos.

CLOTHING

Fleece and capilene (polyester) is the underwear for paddling. It's warm when wet and dries quickly. Avoid cotton as it saps away heat and takes too long to dry. Good rain gear is essential, even two sets. Plus gum boots (Teva sandals in warmer conditions). And have warm hats for when it gets snotty. When you come off the water, first change the kids into dry clothes, and give them shelter and warm drinks if you see they are cold.

Wetsuits work best if they are snug fitting. Capilene underneath will help. A sleeveless john with adjustable shoulders is best. This allows for growth and clothing options.

HAZARDS

Even though capsizing is rare in a double, wet exits and capsize recovery practice should be done each season. These are exercises for the parents to begin practicing on their own, before introducing the concept to the kids. Your children can begin their practice on a calm warm day in shoulder depth water. Try without the sprayskirt for the first couple of tries. Then ensure that your kids can open the sprayskirt with their eyes closed and in a hurry. Have them hold the pull tab before the capsize. And practice getting back in the boat as a family.