Kids and wind, that goes together. Anyone who kites themselves wants to bring the little ones along onto the water sooner or later. The good news: the flat Baltic offers ideal conditions for it. But there are a few things about age, getting started and safety you should know, so it stays relaxed for everyone.
From what age it can begin
For kiting the rough rule is: getting started is possible from about ten years old, with thirteen the properly recommended age. But more important than age are weight and feel: the child should weigh around thirty-five to forty kilos, swim confidently and have a sense for danger. In one-to-one lessons and in light wind, it can sometimes start a little earlier. And as soon as it blows harder, children belong off the water.
First SUP, then kite
A nice path leads via stand-up paddling. From about four years old, children can join mum or dad on the board, and from five or six on their own kids’ SUP. It trains balance and a feel for the water, entirely without pulling force. On the calm flat water of the Salzhaff, Bodden or fjord this is perfect. That way the enthusiasm grows, and the step to the kite later comes almost by itself.
Safety on the beach
With children, safety is everything. A life jacket is a must for the little ones, plus flat, sheltered water and ideally a supervised stretch of beach. Agree on a fixed meeting point in case you lose sight of each other. And take the offshore wind seriously, it drives not only kiters but also air mattresses and SUPs out quickly. One parent always keeps an eye on the children while the other rides.
With the right age, the detour via SUP and a bit of caution, water sports become a family experience. Let the children find their own pace, do not push anything, and celebrate every small step forward. For a family day at our spots, we are happy to give you the right tips.