Re: Toddler and boating
Hi Tom:<br /><br />You have a lot of advice on this topic. I have 3 kids from 8 to 3 in age w/ my middle son being blind w/ CP and other dissabilities. They have all been kayaking with me since they were about 2 months old - or when they could earnestly hold their head up. It is never too early to get them on the water, well so to speak.<br /><br />Life Jackets in our family are called boat coats and they have always worn them. However, parental supervision is the best way to prevent drowning.<br /><br />Sun Screen is a must and hydration too.<br /><br />Keep a clean deck and have mom or you be with her while under way. An adult is always within arms reach of any of our kids at all times.<br /><br />Boat types - we bought a dual console Grady White versus a center console as the cockpit is more enclosed (kids can be isolated in the front port-side seat next to the captains chair) and the cockpit can be buttoned up with front and side curtains during a rain storm or rough water. This is a plus when mom and the kids are aboard and the weather turns.<br /><br />We bought our boat because a trip to the Fl Keys proved fruitful for my disabled son. He absolutely loved the wind, waves and overall sensory experience on a boat we rented. A month later we added a power boat to our collection of sea kayaks and canoes.
