Quantcast
Channel: Canada – Jackson Kayak
Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 106

Kids Camp on the Ottawa River

$
0
0

15050468_571149673085015_1439235854_n

The list of priorities: 1) Safety, 2) Fun, 3) Kayaking.

That is how we breakdown “Kids Week” here at the Ottawa Kayak School. Twice a summer, we welcome around a dozen or so 7 – 11 year olds to the Ottawa river for an entire week of fun! While indeed we wish and strive to develop the kayaking skills of these young rippers, we place a higher focus on nourishing the thought of kayaking as fun, and reinforce the friendships that the young explores make throughout the week. In secret, it’s the best excuse we have found yet that lets our instructors let loose and unleash there inner 4th grader.

15032594_571149729751676_1419912460_n14996308_571149779751671_1782536015_n

We have come to find here at Kids Camp that when a young kayaker is ready to commit to really start learning the fundamentals of kayaking; they will express those feelings and will start to progress at a rapid pace. However, until then, we just love having fun! Playing games on and off the water to develop teamwork, social skills and the basic of basic kayaking skills. This enables the kids to feel comfortable in there kayaks an confident on the water. Ensuring kayaking is a positive and fun activity!

15045571_571149626418353_1339953206_n15045555_571149769751672_1416410259_n

From there first forward strokes, to running there first rapid, to an entire run down the infamous Ottawa River near the end of the week. It is incredible to watch these wide eyed and smiling kids become mesmerized by the river and the realize the potential that lies within the outdoors. It always humbling to watch the next generation become hooked, and wonder how far they will take the sport.

15032360_571149789751670_2086891244_n14996478_571149869751662_335262919_n

While tears and frowns are inevitable throughout the week, we limit the potential for the little guys and gals to be unhappy on the river. We enforce a strict no kayaking in the rain policy, and we make sure we are never to far away from the next snack time. This allows us to be warm, full of energy, full of silliness and full of fun!

15049906_571149686418347_219059684_n 15049930_571149829751666_1936926691_n

Tie Dye T-shirts is one of our favorite ways to let the kids be creative and bond with each other over there Kids Week experience. Creating their own design and colors, and signing the finished works of art for the memories of there new friends to last all year round!

There is always a sigh of relief when the high energized week comes to a successful end, but after a quick rest, we are already ready and excited for the next week!

Looking forward to seeing you, and your kids on the river soon!
Kalob Grady


Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 106

Trending Articles