| There is no better time to instill recreational boating | | | | PFD, it doesn't hurt to instill a bit of nautical terminology |
| safety values than when your children are small. Since | | | | in your child's educational quotient. Start out with simple |
| young minds are impressionable, boating safety and its | | | | terms such as starboard, port, aft, and forward. These |
| benefits are critically important to teach at a young | | | | are simple terms, but are extremely important in |
| age. The number one item that is of importance, | | | | describing the action of any given boat. Even if you're |
| regardless of age, is a good flotation device. Even if | | | | in a small inflatable zodiac or some type of other small |
| you have just a small inflatable zodiac, inflatable dinghy | | | | craft, teach them these terms early. |
| or a fishing trawler, federal law requires you to have | | | | When you teach your children the proper terminology, |
| one in place. Commonly referred to as PFD'S, each | | | | this can save lives especially when it comes to boating |
| child should be fitted with one before leaving the dock | | | | with friends or relatives. In addition to an essential life |
| or shore. When purchasing a life jacket, make sure | | | | saving skill, it also helps to eliminate confusion on board. |
| that you get one that is not bulky or uncomfortable, as | | | | It is okay to have small electronic devices, but teach |
| children are more inclined to take this type of device | | | | your children their dollar value and how important it is to |
| off when you least expect it! | | | | respect them. Show them as well how important it is |
| Children are style conscious, so remember to get a | | | | to store them in clean dry places on board when not |
| PFD that is snazzy and fits in with the crowd! A life | | | | being used. You will find that even kayaks or inflatable |
| jacket that is bulky and difficult to wear will get tossed | | | | boats have secure storage compartments. Most of all, |
| aside or complained about often. One style, which is | | | | have fun with your kids as they will remember their |
| the type II or type III jacket may be a good choice for | | | | younger boating years with their parents for many |
| a child as they come in psychedelic colors with hearts | | | | years to come! |
| on them and kids love that! In addition to a good the | | | | |