Tips for Parents: Preparing Your Child for Surf Lessons in Lahaina

Lahaina is a fascinating historic town off the northwest coast of Maui, Hawaii. While finding surfing spots on the Maui coast can be tricky, Lahaina has managed to create the optimum environment for surfing, along with a little human intervention. Lahaina and the neighboring Kaanapali waters are gentle, which makes them perfect for beginners.

Families often take private surf lessons near Kaanapali, as the gentle waves mean even children can learn to surf! As with anything else related to their children, parents want surfing to be as safe as it is enjoyable. This is possible if you prepare yourself and your children well before you start your lessons.

There are several surf schools throughout Hawaii that will teach your child to surf. They will learn all the ups and downs and the ins and outs of surfing. However, it also helps if parents take the initiative to prepare their children as well. Being prepared will only make the process smoother.

Here is how parents can prepare their children for a surf lesson:

Research matters

Being informed as a parent is your number one responsibility. You care about your children making long-lasting memories, but that can only happen if they are safe. So, research the surf schools at your destination. There are several throughout Maui alone. Weigh your pros and cons. Ask for the school’s credentials, as well as the instructor’s credentials.

Ideally, the instructor is an expert and has a CPR and first aid license. If your child is more comfortable in a private surf lesson near Kaanapali rather than a group lesson, conduct your research to find trustworthy schools.

Give them real-life experiences

The ocean is a vast, seemingly never-ending entity. You don’t want your children jumping in unprepared. Hands-on experiences are beneficial to the growth of children. Take your children out for swimming, introduce them to the ocean if possible, and then teach them about taking care of the environment. This exposure can go a long way. If they know how to swim before a surf lesson, it is always a bonus.

Teach them how to dress

Surfing is an adventure sport, and adventure sports require special suits. It helps to teach your child about the importance of a wetsuit and then teach them to wear it themselves. This fosters a sense of independence and confidence, both of which will help them when they begin surfing properly.

Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your child at least an hour or so before the lesson. You can teach them about the benefits of sunscreen, and you would need a lot of it when in the ocean.

Let them know what they can expect

Nobody likes to be left in the dark, especially about something like surfing. Tell your child what they can expect from watersports and patiently answer all of their questions. This fosters curiosity, and they are not embarrassed to ask questions.

You can explain the basic terms like surfboard, paddle, wipeout, and more. Encourage them to listen to the instructor and revise the safety instructions with them.

Take care of their hydration and appetite

Provide adequate water and food before and after a surfing lesson. Light snacks like a banana are usually a good idea an hour before the lesson. Carry a towel and a water bottle for after the lesson. Explain to them what dehydration is so they can make informed decisions by themselves. Surfing can be a great opportunity to instill independence in your child.

Finally, teach them about realistic expectations

Most children want to win. However, surfing is not an easy activity. Most people don’t even have beginner’s luck with surfing. As a parent, you can put more emphasis on the fun. You can teach them that the goal doesn’t matter as much as the journey to get there. This allows children to make mistakes freely and learn from them. It also teaches them that learning is a slow process and requires the utmost patience.

These are some ways parents can prepare their child for a surf lesson in Lahaina!