Surfing for kids

The practice of surfing for children has become an increasingly popular activity in Gran Canaria. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about learning to surf at an early age, the benefits of surfing for kids, important tips for children's surfing practice, beginner techniques for the little ones, and much more. 

Surfing for children: everything you need to know

Surfing is a water sport that, besides being a lot of fun, offers many benefits to children who practice it. Learning to surf from a young age not only provides them with a healthy and exciting activity but also allows them to develop motor skills, coordination, and self-confidence.

The importance of starting surfing at an early age

Starting to surf at an early age is very important, as children tend to become more fearful and less willing to try new things as they grow. In addition, young children learn faster and recover more quickly after a fall. Surfing from an early age also allows them to adapt better to sea conditions, such as currents, wind, and waves, which will help keep them safe in the water.

Important tips for children's surfing practice

• Always use the appropriate protective equipment, such as helmets and life jackets.
• Teach children to stay calm in the water and to trust their abilities.
• Explain the dangers of surfing to children and how to avoid them.
• Encourage children to practice in the company of adults or experienced instructors.
• Make sure children have fun while learning and do not feel pressured.
• Hire a surf school to learn safely.

The surfboard for children: how to choose it

The surfboard is one of the most important elements in the practice of surfing. When choosing a children's surfboard, it is important to consider factors such as size, the child's weight, and skill level. Smaller boards are easier for children to handle, but they also need a board that allows them to progress as they improve. At Oceanside Gran Canaria, we can advise you on the best children's board based on the child's characteristics. It is also important to ensure that the board is safe and of high quality, which is why we only work with the best brands.

Surf lessons and schools for children

Surf lessons for children are an excellent way to introduce the little ones to the world of surfing, providing them with a solid foundation for their growth as surfers. In Spain, there are many surf schools for children that offer beginner lessons and surf camp programs, with highly experienced and qualified instructors who guarantee a fun and safe experience.

The importance of instructors in teaching surfing to children

In teaching surfing to children, the role of instructors is essential. Instructors in children's surf schools are trained and experienced to adapt lessons to the needs and preferences of the students, so they can learn at their own pace. In addition, instructors supervise children's surfing practice, ensuring their safety at all times.

Surf equipment rental for children

Surf schools also offer surf equipment rental for children, which is very convenient for those who do not have their own equipment. The equipment includes the surfboard, wetsuit, leash, and the necessary accessories to practice surfing safely. Surf school instructors will help children in the process of choosing and adjusting the surf equipment, thus ensuring their comfort and safety during practice.

Benefits of surfing for children

Surfing is a sport that offers multiple physical, psychological, and emotional benefits for children, which is why it is becoming increasingly popular among young people. Below, we detail the main benefits that surfing offers children:

Improvement of motor skills, balance, and coordination

• Surfing requires great balance and coordination to stay on the board, making it an ideal sport to improve these skills in children. Through surfing practice, children develop their sense of balance, the ability to maintain stability, and coordination between body and mind.
• In addition, by paddling and standing up on the board, children exercise their strength, endurance, and flexibility, resulting in more complete overall physical development.

Boosting self-confidence and teamwork

• Surfing is a sport that requires a certain degree of self-confidence, as well as trust in other team members, since children are exposed to risky situations and must rely on instructors, peers, and their own abilities to overcome them.
• Overcoming the challenges that surfing presents, such as learning to stand on the board or face the waves, increases children's self-confidence, which is highly beneficial for their personal and emotional development.

The importance of the natural environment in children's surfing

Surfing takes place in natural environments, where children will connect with nature and learn to respect the environment. Through surfing, children can develop an appreciation for the beauty of the natural surroundings, while at the same time learning to care for and protect them for future generations.

Games and complementary activities for teaching surfing to children

To teach surfing to children, it is important to carry out complementary activities that develop motor skills and coordination. Below are some interesting activities:

Activities that develop motor skills and coordination

• Walking on the surfboard
• Rolling the surfboard along the shore
• Practicing balance movements on a yoga board
• Relay races with the surfboard on the beach

These activities will not only help children improve their balance and motor coordination but also familiarize them with the surfboard.

Racing and jumping games to build confidence

• Racing game where children have to run to the surfboard, get on it, and paddle with their hands towards a teammate
• Jumping game with the surfboard where children jump from the board into a hoop placed on the sand
• Balance game where children must stand on the surfboard while moving along the beach

These games will help children build self-confidence and their ability to work as a team. It is important to remember that the games should recognize and value the child's effort, so competitiveness should be avoided.

Beginner surfing techniques for children

• Practice the basic stance with feet on the board in the sand before entering the water
• Learn to paddle with hands and feet to move forward in the water
• Explain the wave system and the different types of waves they may encounter

These techniques are important for the child's safety and success in surfing practice and are a fundamental part of learning this water sport. It is important to remember that teaching surfing to children must be carried out by trained and experienced instructors.

Surf camps for children

Surf camps are a highly recommended option for children who want to start surfing and live a unique experience. In addition to improving in surfing, surf camps provide an enriching environment where children can meet other surf enthusiasts, share experiences, and enjoy a different summer.

Responsibilities and requirements for attending a children's surf camp

• Parents or legal guardians of the child must authorize their participation in the surf camp.
• It is important to choose a camp suitable for the child's surfing level. Many surf schools offer surf camps adapted to different ages and levels.
• The child must have a positive attitude and be willing to learn and share experiences with other children.
• It is important to ensure that the camp suits the child's preferences and needs, such as the type of accommodation or the duration of the camp.

The perfect complement between a surf camp and surf lessons for children

Attending a surf camp is the ideal complement to surf lessons for children. Surf camps usually offer daily surf sessions as well as complementary and leisure activities to promote the positive values of surfing. In addition, at the camp, children can learn from other surfers, share experiences, and create new friendships. It is important to highlight that surf camps usually have expert and highly experienced instructors, which guarantees quality teaching and a positive experience for children.

 

Are you looking for surf lessons in Gran Canaria? Call us, at Oceanside we can help you