Essential Tips for Ensuring Your Kids’ Safety on a SUP

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has surged in popularity worldwide, offering thrilling experiences on the water. However, prioritising safety is paramount, especially when it involves children. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your kids safe and secure during their paddle boarding adventures.

Build Water Confidence Early

Before venturing onto the water with your child, ensure they feel confident in and around large bodies of water. While formal swimming lessons aren’t mandatory, basic water familiarity is crucial. This foundational confidence ensures they won’t panic if they fall into the water, aligning with the fun and safety goals of paddle boarding.

Always Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Regardless of your child’s swimming abilities, a PFD is indispensable for open-water activities like SUP boards. Unlike controlled pool environments, natural bodies of water present unpredictable elements such as waves, rocks, and wind. Even proficient swimmers can face challenges like murky waters or unexpected falls from the paddle board, where a PFD offers crucial buoyancy and safety.

Secure with a Leash

In addition to wearing a PFD, always tether your child to the board using a leash, especially when they paddle independently. This essential safety measure prevents the board from drifting away in windy or turbulent conditions, acting as a vital link akin to a lifeboat.

Choose Appropriate Paddle-board Specifications and Terrain

Select a paddle board that accommodates both you and your child comfortably. Opt for wider, buoyant boards that enhance stability and control, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone on board. When selecting a location, prioritise calm, smooth waters over challenging terrains to boost your child’s confidence and enjoyment.

Progression Steps: Sit, Kneel, Stand

Introduce paddle boarding to your child in stages to build confidence gradually. Start with sitting on the board while you manage propulsion, allowing them to acclimate to the water environment. As they gain confidence, progress to kneeling, which improves balance and readiness for independent paddling. Finally, guide them to stand upright with your assistance, encouraging them through each step to foster natural adaptation and skill development.

Ensure Hydration and Sun Protection

Maintain your child’s hydration levels during paddle boarding sessions, as exposure to sun and wind can accelerate dehydration. Encourage drinking water every 10-15 minutes to prevent thirst and maintain energy levels throughout the activity. Additionally, protect their skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen and ensuring they wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved swimwear.

Emphasise Fun and Safety

Above all, make paddle boarding a fun and enjoyable experience for your child. When children are engaged and excited about an activity, they are more likely to adhere to safety guidelines. By fostering a positive association with paddle boards, you enhance their willingness to embrace safety measures while having a blast on the water.

Implementing these safety tips ensures that your child can fully enjoy the exhilarating experience of stand-up paddle boarding while staying safe and secure. By prioritizing confidence-building, proper equipment use, and enjoyable learning progressions, you pave the way for memorable and worry-free paddle-boarding adventures with your kids.