When it comes to kayaking with kids, it's important to keep things fun and engaging in order to get the most out of your adventures. Here are some quick tips we have gathered over the years for making kayaking a fun and exciting experience for you and your kids! 

• Wear the right gear: Okay, we know this doesn’t seem “fun”, but neither is a sun burn! Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen go a long way in keeping kids comfortable and allowing them to focus on the adventure at hand.

• Choose the right location: Look for calm and shallow waters, such as ponds or small lakes, that are safe for kids to kayak. Bonus if you can find a location that has interesting things to see, such as wildlife, bridges to paddle under or an island to explore!  
• Play games: Incorporate fun and interactive games, such as paddle races or "I Spy," to keep kids engaged and entertained during the kayaking trip. Scavenger hunts typically go over well too! 
• Make it a family adventure: Get the whole family involved in the kayaking experience. Plan a picnic, explore the surrounding area, and enjoy some quality time together in nature.
• Bring snacks and drinks: Kayaking can be physically demanding, and kids need to stay hydrated and energized. Bring plenty of snacks and drinks to keep them fueled and happy.

• Make it educational: Use kayaking as an opportunity to teach your child about the environment or your local wildlife and plants. Take note of some of the things that your child shows interest in and then spend time together back home learning about what you saw. 
• Let them take the lead: Allow your child to take the lead and determine the pace of the kayaking trip. This can be challenging at times but it is a great opportunity for your kids to build confidence and gain independence. 
• Keep it short and sweet: Kids (especially under the age of 6) often have shorter attention spans, so it's best to start with short paddles of 30-60 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as they gain more experience and confidence.
• Bring a camera: Capture the memories of your family kayaking adventure by bringing a waterproof camera or a smartphone in a waterproof case. If the kids are taking pictures, we recommend you find a waterproof case that also floats! 

• Emphasize safety: Safety should always be a top priority when kayaking with kids. Ensure that everyone wears a properly fitting personal flotation device and follows all safety guidelines and rules. Making safety a top priority ensures a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Whether you're looking to bond, have an adventure, or break a sweat, these tips will help make your kayaking experience a blast! And don't worry if your first trip isn't picture-perfect, just roll with it and give it another shot! After all, practice makes perfect, right?
Let's get paddling!

Author

Ruth Winter Co-Founder of Evrwild