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    Family Paddle Boarding: Tips for Going Out with Kids

    by Coastal Paddle Boards

    Paddle boarding with kids is one of the most enjoyable things you can do as a family on the water. Children take to it quickly, it is low-risk in the right conditions, and it gets everyone off screens and into the fresh air.

    Here is how to make it safe, fun, and something the whole family will want to do again.

    Age and Ability

    There is no strict minimum age for paddle boarding, but most children from around 5 or 6 years old can enjoy riding on a board with an adult. From around 8 to 10, many children can start paddling independently on a smaller board in calm, shallow water.

    The key is matching the challenge to the child's confidence and ability. Start easy and build up gradually.

    Safety First

    • All children should wear a buoyancy aid or life jacket on the water, regardless of their swimming ability.
    • Adults should wear their leash at all times.
    • Choose calm, sheltered water for family sessions. Lakes, estuaries, and sheltered bays are ideal.
    • Stay close to shore, especially with younger children.
    • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.

    Younger Children on the Board with You

    Young children can sit or kneel on the front of your board while you paddle. This works well up to around 5 or 6 years old, depending on the child's size and confidence.

    A wider board is much more stable for this. Our Salcombe Seeker at 31 inches wide handles the extra weight well and gives you a stable platform for paddling with a small passenger.

    Keep sessions short. Young children get cold and tired faster than adults, and ending on a high note means they will want to come back.

    Older Children Paddling Independently

    From around 8 to 10, children can start learning to paddle independently. Start them on a smaller board in very shallow water and let them practise getting on, kneeling, and eventually standing at their own pace.

    The same technique tips apply as for adults: eyes on the horizon, knees slightly bent, feet shoulder-width apart. Keep it fun and low-pressure.

    What to Bring

    • Buoyancy aids for all children
    • Sun cream and a sun hat for everyone
    • Plenty of water and snacks
    • A dry bag for phones, keys, and valuables
    • A changing mat for getting changed on the beach
    • A changing robe for adults and older children
    • Wetsuits if the water is cold

    Choosing the Right Location

    For family sessions, calm and sheltered is always better than exposed and exciting. Lakes, tidal estuaries at slack water, and sheltered bays are ideal. Avoid open beaches with surf, strong tidal currents, or offshore winds.

    The Salcombe Estuary, Fowey, and the Lake District are all excellent family-friendly destinations.

    Keeping It Fun

    • Let children set the pace. If they want to stop and swim, let them.
    • Make it an adventure. Explore coves, look for wildlife, find a beach for a picnic.
    • Keep sessions to an hour or less for younger children.
    • Celebrate small wins. Standing up for the first time is a big deal for a child.

    Get the Right Kit

    Browse our paddle board range and family-friendly accessories. Free UK delivery in 1 to 3 days.

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