CITY PADDLES is an experiential, event-based program on the water.
Our students start on land with exercises to loosen up muscles that will soon grow tired, talk about arm and shoulder movements that make up basic paddle strokes, and how to be safe in watercraft with a teammate or alone. They are reminded of the floating principals of a boat, getting in and out of a canoe or kayak safely, and how not to overturn them once on the water. And, know that a guide or volunteer is always nearby if they run into difficulty, so NO reason to panic!
Kids are shown how to choose a life jacket or vest and encouraged to help the younger ones fit into theirs and tighten them. Then there’s boat selection — depending on skill level, they either pair up with a friend or go solo, or partner with staff and volunteers if they need more skills and practice.
It’s sheer fun to watch our youth grow in confidence as they argue and shout about how to make a canoe go forward, backward, or even sideways! Soon they are helping others. They gain even greater confidence when navigating around a little island, dodge branches or reed grasses, or explore a small inlet. The ultimate challenge is competing in our races, guessing who will be winners, and then finishing up with drinks and snacks for everyone after a fun-filled workout.
An additional goal is to make these urban kids more aware of the varying bodies of water in Hartford parks, and what lives in and around them. By exposing them to the mechanics of boating and how to self-maneuver, they can get out onto the water themselves and look for fish, do our “turtle count”, or search for other aquatic life. We have also taught water quality and how to remove trash safely.
For those showing greater skill and confidence, we encourage taking on more challenging water and try to determine their interest in longer trips (Batterson Park and Farmington River). We also talk about future paddle sports they can possibly enjoy like crew, competitive river kayaking, or paddle boarding.
