Heading out to the wilderness with young kids may seem overwhelming but with these tips, you will survive and thrive while creating memories to last a lifetime and generations to come.
Kaj, Ted, Lisa, Mark and Bebeth started paddling with their kids before they started walking, often joining up with other families for the Traveling Circus. They share their wisdom and photos for making the most of multi-generational paddling.
Get the kids involved – let them paddle early and often. A kid-sized canoe paddle is a great starter in a canoe or kayak. Ocean going canoes are great for little ones, use a kids plastic chair for added height and comfort and let them slide down under cover for a little nap on longer crossings.
Combine families, sharing the load and the work makes lifelong friendships for all ages.
Bring grandparents along. The bonding that occurs across generations on these trips is powerful and long-lasting.
Leave the kid toys at home. The beach provides. Kids instinctively know how to have fun on paddling trips. Parents can learn a thing or two.
Fun food makes for fun times, don’t forget the marshmallows, add in a gummy bear for a special treat. Load up on snacks, and portion out for the day or all the beef jerky could disappear in a day.
Don’t forget the tarp. Rain or shine, it’s party central.
Save the big-water experiences for other times. Just having kids and grandparents out on a trip is challenge enough. Plan for base camps on longer trips, shorter paddles and longer beach time.
As Kaj’s son Nils says, “Dad, I know all the parents like the paddling, but the kids like the islands!”
Bring the fishing rods, fun times and fun food.
Don’t wait! If kids start going on paddling trips when they are infants they don’t think twice about paddling in the rain in later years.
Terese and Mikaela still paddling then and now.
