How old should a Child be to go Kayaking???

Question

How old should a Child be to go Kayaking???

Answer 1

Kayaking? Hmm .. At least 10-11. Because it is fairly hard to get back up from under a kayak if it flips, most people get stuck in the kayak and don't know how to properly maneuver upright again. Canoeing is a safer choice for a kid, because a parent is right in the boat with them, and hopefully they are wearing a life jacket :]

Answer 2

I have taken my 1 1/2 year old grandson kayaking. Naturally wearing a proper life jacket. This year at 2 1/2 he helps me paddle.

Answer 3

It really depends on

1. where you are kayaking

2. the kind of kayak

3. the weather

4. how comfortable is the child, both paddling alone and if the do tip over.

Young children should be paddling alone on anything more than lakes and that's only if the weather is nice. Any kind of wind can be a problem for kids. The also shouldn't paddle alone if they don't feel comfortable with it, or if there is a chance they might panic if they tip over.

If it a nice day and on a lake, possibly a child as young as 8 or 9, but they need to be able to easily maneuver the kayak. I suggest a recreational kayak. They are short and wide. The short length will allow them to maneuver easier and the width will give them more stability. There usually isn't a problem with them getting stuck upside down. A recreational kayak offers a wide opening and if it tipped over the child would just slide out.

I'm sure it goes without having to be said, but I'll say it anyway because I'm very cautious and safety minded. Kids should never paddle alone without a responsible adult present and within reach.

Edit - I forgot the most important thing. The PFD or life vest. Make sure it fits properly. It should be tight enough that if you pull up on the vest at the shoulders it does't go above his/her ears. Otherwise if they go in the water the vest will ride up but their face could still be in the water- very dangerous.