Kids and Canoeing Posted by: rpg51 on Dec-18-11 8:29 AM (EST)
My experience (my youngest is now 26!) is that the gentle approach is best. Think of their fun all the time. The moment they show signs of boredom change something. Bring lots of snacks and keep their bellies full. Have you ever camped with them? If not consider camping in the back yard and see how that goes. Then maybe some short trips where you camp by the car one night and take a short day paddle. Ease into it. If you push and they get unhappy you will do more harm than good. I honestly think you don't need to go far from home at first and it might be best to stay near home. A five mile drive to a new place is an adventure for kids that age. Just my opinion - I'm sure others will disagree.