In college, I had friends who loved to hike and camp. I went… sometimes. It just wasn’t my thing. But then, we started kayaking and that — THAT was something I could really get behind!
I loved being on the water in a one man boat. In total control of where I was going and how fast I would get there, just by flicking my arms and dipping the paddle into the water. Yes, I went on those trips. And years later, when my parents built a house by the river, I got my love back. These days, my 8 year old is nipping at my heels every weekend — “Let’s go kayaking, mama!” Two summers ago she got her first taste of floating down the river and now she’s hooked!
Before heading out with your kids for the first time, it’s ideal for you to have some experience on the water by yourself. You need to be comfortable and knowledgeable. I think it goes without saying that everyone needs a life jacket. (Federal Law actually requires them for kids under 13.) You should also ideally be familiar with your river or body of water.
If you’ve not recently floated this stretch of river, send a scout out in front of children so you know what’s coming. Getting through gnarled masses of trees and debris can be treacherous if you don’t know which is the best route to take. There are often strong currents and swells both before and after a block, so stay close to the children in case their boat tips.
I would personally feel safest having a child under the age of 5 or 6 in an canoe. Your toddler can also sit in front of you in a kayak, just be careful about hitting them in the head with the paddle! (Please don’t ever actually strap your child to the boat, in case you capsize.) The bottom line is that you know your child and their strengths and weaknesses, so go with your instinct.
Kids should be comfortable around water in general, and also understand the basics behind the boat itself, the paddles, and how everything works together to steer. I think it’s helpful to hitch younger kids to an adult’s boat via a tow rope, which still gives them a lot of freedom. They don’t have to stay behind you, after all! Eventually though, they’ll get tired and you’ll pull them along while they enjoy floating down the river and enjoying the ride!
