Novice paddlers need introductory information about equipment, safety, boat carries, and boat entries and exits, although younger boaters require less detail than older ones. Certainly the method of delivery should be lively to keep everyone interested. Even a simple activity like letting paddlers name their boats and decorate them with colored tape can be incorporated into an equipment talk.

Here are some adaptations of traditional lessons to provide background knowledge. Feel free to modify the approaches as needed to suit the age of participants.

Individual and Group Preparedness Games

Fill a box with clothing, paddling gear, life jackets, and wetsuits. Divide into small groups, and give each group a different weather condition. Group members advise their model in the selection and wearing of appropriate clothing. Include some goofy items from your Halloween box just to spice it up!

Observation Game

Cover safety gear with a tarp in preparation for a test of observational skills. Provide each small group with pens and scrap paper, and then give them a 15-second peek under the tarp (a longer look is needed with lots of stuff). Initially ask each individual to list as much as he or she can remember, and then let each small group combine answers for a total group tally. Include first aid kit contents, sunscreen, water bottles, rescue gear, and river maps or guide books.