Fun & Safe Sailing For Children

From the start, it is important to teach children that sailing is a fun activity. To keep their interest levels up whilst teaching safe sailing for children you need to be creative.

I’m sure that most children will roll their eyes in protest if you sit them down to explain about boating navigation rules or safety on board. However, our children still need to know the basics and learn the ropes too. We’ve put together some simple tips to keep your children excited about sailing, whilst learning important boating safety information.

Tips on Teaching Safe Sailing For Children

Use Simple Safety Procedures For All

No doubt your children had to learn how to behave safely in other situations, such as crossing the road. I’m sure you taught them simple rules such as “Look left, right, and left again”. Tell them that sailing is great fun, but there are also simple safety rules to follow. Once they understand the risks they will understand why they are following the safety procedures.

A major rule should be to wear lifejackets/harnesses at all times on board. The great thing about modern lifejackets for kids is that they are comfortable and easy to move about in. Check out our article about picking the right lifejackets for your family.

Learning Through Example

By setting a good example, children will follow suit. If you employ a “do as I say, not as I do” technique then they will not respect what you are teaching them. It’s easy to be a good role model by sticking to simple and clear boat safety rules and encouraging them when they do well. If they forget something (as kids often do) gently remind them of the reasons why they should adhere to the boat safety procedures.

Give Older Children Responsibility

Include the older children in teaching the younger ones. By giving them a level of responsibility they will feel trusted, and hopefully work hard to keep the smaller children safe on board. Kids generally like to be helpful and you can implement an award scheme to keep it fun and show recognition for good boating behaviour.

Resources That Teach Safe Sailing For Children

There are lots of resources that focus on teaching safe sailing for children. On those rainy days when you can’t get out on the water, pop them in front of a good book or computer and set them up with some fun educational activities. We’ve included a selection below – let us know if you have found a good one on our Facebook Page so we can add it to the list!