PADDLER
Toby and Chris
PADDLER
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Robyn and her paddles from Uncle Andy Photo : Kate Wilkinson
Toby and Chris
DEL READ HTTPS :// DELKAYAKS . CO . UK @ DEL _ LIKES _ KAYAKING to manage their own expectations . I have included another excellent extract from Chris on this point .
“ When we first started running laps in a canoe of the River Dee and then back up the canal , we followed clear routines . Toby would sit on the same rock while I ran Serpent . We would stop at the same beach by the river for peanut butter and jam sandwiches . Then , on the paddle back up the canal , we would stop at the same bench to read a story . Repeating this pattern on our paddles gave Toby a sense of expectation . He knows ( to some degree ) what ’ s happening , rather than a nervous experience of not knowing what comes next .
“ Now that he ’ s more experienced , we ’ ve ditched this pattern because he knows the rapids . In fact , I struggle to get him on the Dee because ‘ the lower Tryweryn has more rapids . What have I created ?”
ROUTINES
I think routines help children to feel in control of their situation . Knowing what to expect is incredibly reassuring compared to the feelings of nervousness when you have no idea . I also love that Chris and Toby ’ s paddles incorporated other fun activities like food and story time !
Having fun activities as part of the paddle increases the positive experience . As adults , we also appreciate this ! Think how many canoe clubs ’ summer night activities involve paddling somewhere for a picnic ( or pub lunch !) and then paddling back again .
Dan also recommended always packing snacks ( and alcohol gel for hands ) on family paddles . He also pointed out snacks are great for you to eat if your children decide they don ’ t want them that day !