Fun and Safety for Kids on Boats

Boating does not have to be limited to adults. If you follow different precautions and safety measures, you can bring everyone in your family, including the kids. Young children can have a fantastic time on a boat, too. There are plenty of ways to make their time on the boat more enjoyable if they are new to the whole thing. If you need more guidance, you are welcome to join us at Thayer's Marine. Our dealership, located in Norwich, Connecticut, proudly serves Norwich, Connecticut and Springfield, Massachusetts.

Basic Safety Tips

First and foremost, all passengers need to have a life jacket on at all times. Children are at greater risk of drowning if they go overboard on a boat. To further prevent any accidents, you need to explain the rules carefully to your children. Show them around the boat, including dangerous areas where they should not go.

First-Aid and Sunscreen

Having kids on a boat also means that accidents can happen. Prepare a fully-stocked first aid kit to care for minor injuries, including removing splinters and patching scrapes. Pack seasickness preventative aids in the first aid kit, too. Your kit should also include sun protection, including a high SPF sunscreen. 

Tips for Boating with Toddlers

Kids under the age of seven need to have things to keep them occupied on a boat. To help you worry less about their safety, set up a spot on the boat just for them. Buy special toys for the boat so that they have something to get them interested in the trip. Avoid spending hours on the boat with very young children. If they do not have enough breaks, you will have discontented toddlers on board. Try having lunch on the shore and taking a walk to check out the views. 

Tips for Boating with Older Children

Older kids have longer attention spans and can be trusted with more responsibility on a boat. Pack inflatable toys and snorkeling gear if you have adventurous kids. Paddleboarding or kayaking are also fun activities that will develop hand-eye coordination in children. If your kids enjoy their time outside in nature, then plan some time on the beach or pack binoculars. And if you invite friends over to the boat, you should also extend that offer to your kids. 

Use this guide to get started making boating more fun and safer for the kids in your life. You will be pleasantly surprised by how impactful the experience will be for them. Visit Thayer's Marine in Norwich, Connecticut, and our staff can show you around our latest deals. We welcome customers from Springfield, Massachusetts and Norwich, Connecticut.