Getting kids on the water opens up a world of adventure, but successful family paddling requires thoughtful preparation. As PaddleZone's Adam and Craig know from their family-owned business, "paddling is a great family experience and fun way to get kids active and enjoying the outdoors." Here's what every parent or carer should consider before embarking on their first family paddle.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Start with a stable tandem kayak that offers durability, stability and speed, perfect for nervous young paddlers. Double kayaks are very popular for families with small kids because they allow parents to control steering and speed while children learn. PaddleZone's range includes modular options like the Point 65 Falcon, which is designed with both kids and adults in mind. Whether paddling, fishing or just relaxing it offers flexibility as your family's skills develop.
Safety equipment is non-negotiable. All children (and adults) must wear properly fitted life jackets at all times, it’s not just a regulation, it’s smart for a variety of reasons. Wearing a life jacket never ruined a day on the water. Don't forget sun protection: hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for Australia's harsh UV conditions.
Consider traditional open-cockpit canoes, which offer generous storage space, excellent stability, and enough room for the whole family. Alternatively, sit-on-top kayaks are lightweight, easy to handle, and feature a spacious deck, making them ideal for kids who want to be active paddlers and stay close to the water. Modular kayaks enable a single to become double by simply adding a mid-section.
Or finally, choose double/tandem kayaks which can give kids all the experiences of kayaking without having to do any paddling - that’s your job!
With its signature ‘snap-tap take apart system’, the Point 65 Sweden Falcon can accommodate two or three paddlers. The choice is all yours!
Planning Age-Appropriate Adventures
Plan trips about one-third the usual distance you would travel with your adult counterparts and remember that the older the child, the more time generally you can spend on the water. For children under six who want their own kayak, using a tow rope is probably a good idea to maintain control when little arms get tired. Otherwise just start with shorter trips that are fun but interesting for kids.
Start with protected, calm waters like lakes or slow-moving rivers. Avoid areas with strong currents, boat traffic, or unpredictable weather patterns. Consider locations with easy entry and exit points and always have a bailout plan if conditions change or children become tired or upset.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Children's attention spans and energy levels differ vastly from adults. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment for rest breaks. Make frequent stops to explore shorelines, look for wildlife, have a swim or simply stretch legs. Remember, the goal is creating positive associations with paddling, not covering distance.
Build confidence gradually. Some families start with short pond sessions in their backyard or local park before progressing to longer adventures. "Kayaking is probably one of the easiest sports to get anyone out having a good time with some simple adjusting and planning.
Safety Beyond Equipment
Establish clear rules before launching: stay close to parents, no sudden movements that could tip the kayak, and always listen to instructions immediately. Practice capsizing procedures in shallow, controlled conditions so children know what to expect and aren't panicked if it happens.
Check weather conditions thoroughly and have contingency plans. "Conditions change quickly at sea" and on inland waters, so constant vigilance is essential. It’s always a good idea to explain your plans to someone who won’t be joining you, even as simple as where you plan on going and your expected return time.
Making It Fun
Turn paddling into a game: spot different bird species, collect interesting (non-living) specimens from beaches, or create stories about the landscapes you're exploring. Bring a waterproof camera so kids can document their adventures.
As PaddleZone recognizes, paddling offers physical, mental and social benefits that extend far beyond the immediate adventure. Family paddling builds confidence, creates lasting memories, and instills a lifelong love of outdoor activities.
Remember, successful family paddling isn't about perfect technique or ambitious destinations – it's about sharing the joy of being on the water together, safely and memorably.
Find Family-Friendly Quality Kayaks at PaddleZone
At PaddleZone, we have a wide range of kayaks for sale, as well as accessories including paddles and life jackets to suit adults and kids. Whether you’re using sit on top kayaks or canoes, even inflatables, we’ve got it and we ship nationwide.
Pop into our Sydney store for advice or order online anytime! As passionate paddlers themselves, Adam and Craig know their stuff and love nothing more than helping customers find exactly what they’re looking for, and this includes products from the world’s best and brightest brands.
Ready to get in the zone and get your kids on the water? Check out our range now!
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