During the summer, one of the best ways to cool off is to head to the lake. Even better is heading to the lake with your boat. However, with the whole family in tow, it is even more important to stay safe on the water, especially so that the kids feel prepared. Below are some tips to ensure your kids love spending time at the lake safely and comfortably.
Teach Water Safety
Kids learn things very quickly, so teaching them how to be safe on and around water is best from a young age. Water safety is crucial at any age, but implementing smart habits in kids is a great way to also encourage the adults on board. Step one is ensuring they always wear a life jacket the whole time they are on board the boat. Make sure that it fits correctly and cannot be pulled over their head. Step two, is ensuring they know what to do if they fall off the boat, making sure they know they should yell to the boat and understand how their lifejacket helps them float.
Have Some Swim Skills
Knowing how to do specific swimming strokes is not necessary, but knowing how to tread water, float, and at least do a basic paddle is essential. The better your kids are at swimming, the safer they will be, and the more fun they will have out on the water. After all, being able to anchor in a quiet cove, and swim is a lot of fun for all ages. Once they are confident swimmers, you can also introduce them to watersports and snorkeling. Consider signing your kids up for swim lessons now so by the time summer is underway, they are prepared for the water.
Stay Sun Smart
Spending all day outside during summer requires careful planning to avoid sunburn and sunstroke. However, being on the water intensifies the sun’s rays. This means it is crucial to keep plenty of drinking water on board and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Kids should also be dressed in lightweight, long sleeves wherever possible and wear a brimmed hat. Consider investing in UPF 50+ clothing as it will protect them from the sun, while keeping them warm from the wind as you head out on the boat.
Engage With The Kids
When you are spending all day on or at the lake, it is nice to just sit back and relax. However, it is important that you are engaging with the kids, and spending quality time with them. This can be playing a game, swimming, showing them the sights, or spending time fishing. Whatever the activity, by directly engaging the kids, you are teaching them new skills and creating unforgettable memories. As the kids get older, involve them in the planning and preparation process of spending the day on the water. This could be through learning how to put down the anchor, tie up at the dock, and even drive.
Plan Ahead
Anything can happen while on the water, which means you need to be prepared. Make sure you always carry a full first aid kit, flares, a GPS locator, and a fire extinguisher. When taking kids on board, make sure that you also have snacks, a change of clothes for each kid, extra towels, and some games. This way, you are ready for anything that happens, from weather changes to accidents.
Teaching your kids to love the lake, both being on it and in it, takes time. Start your summer season off early by ensuring your kids have the skills they need to be safe and comfortable all season long. Remember, anything can happen at any moment, so be prepared for the worst while still enjoying the fun with family.
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