What age fits starting to paddle with children?

Children can come along in a canoe or the middle seat of a double kayak from an early age if they have a life jacket that fits and the trip is kept short and quiet. Own paddling often starts in school age. Always adapt to the child and the weather.

Which life jacket should children have?

A CE-marked life jacket in the right size for the child’s weight, with a crotch strap so it does not ride up. Try lifting by the shoulder strap – the jacket should stay put. Children should always wear a life jacket in and near the water.

Canoe or kayak with children?

A canoe (canadien) is usually easiest with small children – stable, roomy and easy to talk and pack in. A double kayak also works, with the child in the middle. Pick quiet, sheltered water either way.

Paddling with children – canoe, kayak and SUP with the family

Paddling with children can become one of summer’s finest outings – if you keep the trip short, quiet and safe. The goal the first time is not to paddle far, but that the children find it fun and want to do it again. Pick a warm, still day, sheltered water and plenty of time.

Pick the right craft

The canadien is usually best with small children: it is stable, roomy and makes it easy to keep contact, pack a fika and let a child sit in the middle. In a double kayak a smaller child can sit in the middle, while older children can try their own small kayak or SUP close to shore. Ask the rental what fits your group – many have kit adapted for families.

Life jacket and safety first

Everyone aboard wears a life jacket, always. Children should have a CE-marked jacket in the right size by weight, preferably with a crotch strap and collar. Try the fit on land: lift at the shoulders – if the jacket stays put the size is right. Stay close to shore, avoid cold water and read our guide on safety and cold water.

Keep the trip short and fun

Children have shorter patience than adults. Plan a short stretch with a clear goal – a swimming rock, an island with fika or a sand beach. Take breaks, let the children paddle a little themselves and swim. It is better to finish while it is still fun than to push a few extra kilometres.

Weather and water

Wind is the family’s greatest enemy. Even a light offshore wind can take you away from the beach. Paddle in the lee, preferably with a light wind towards land, and watch the forecast. More in our guide on weather and wind. Bring dry clothes, sun protection and extra fika.

Where do you paddle with children?

Pick quiet inland lakes, sheltered bays and water near town rather than open sea and moving rivers. Many rentals sit at bathing spots and lakes that suit families. Find the nearest rental via the map or the page to rent a canoe.