Let’s Go Paddle Boarding!
Hello! Paddle boarding is like standing on a big, wide board and using a long paddle to move on calm water. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide for a 6-year-old to have fun and stay safe at a community paddle-boarding event.
Before You Start
- Bring a grown-up: Always paddle with a parent, guardian, or a teacher.
- Wear a life jacket: A properly fitted life jacket keeps you safe in the water.
- Sun and shoes: Put on sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes or sandals that stay on.
- Listen to the instructor: A grown-up or coach will show you what to do and help you.
Step-by-Step on the Water
- Pick a calm spot: Start in shallow, quiet water where the board can touch the bottom.
- Sit first: Sit in the middle of the board with your legs crossed and the paddle across your lap.
- Practice balancing: Try leaning forward and back a little to feel how the board moves.
- Kneel next: When you’re ready, kneel on the board with both knees by the center handle. Hold the paddle in both hands.
- Stand up slowly: Put one foot at a time where your knees were and stand up slowly. Keep your feet about as wide as your shoulders. An adult should be close to help until you feel steady.
- Hold the paddle: The long end (handle) goes in the top hand. The flat blade goes in the bottom hand. The blade should point away from you when you paddle.
- Paddle to go: Put the blade in the water near the front of the board and pull it back toward you. Take small, steady strokes on one side, then switch sides.
- Turn the board: To turn right, paddle a little on the left side. To turn left, paddle a little on the right side.
- If you fall in: Stay calm. Hold on to the board—boards float! Climb back on from the side or let an adult lift you if you need help.
- Get out safely: When finished, move to shallow water, sit down, and then step off the board with help from an adult.
Community Rules and Kindness
- Wait your turn and share the boards.
- Listen to the lifeguard or instructor at all times.
- Keep the water clean: don’t throw trash in the water and be gentle with plants and animals.
- Be kind and cheer for other kids learning, too!
Things to Bring
- Life jacket (PFD), sunscreen, hat
- Water bottle and a snack for after
- Towel and a dry change of clothes
That’s it—have fun! Paddle slow, listen to your grown-up, and smile. Paddle boarding is a great way to play and meet friends in your community.