Two things I used to do with my son, when he was younger than yours: I had a pack basket that could be secured in the middle of the boat, with a cushion for him. He was also secured with a long enough lead that he could help me steer. We also went to the boat show every year to get his new jacket. They grow fast, don't they.
Awesome, thanks! You are right about the launching and tearing down. When my kids got a bit older they couldn't stay in the vehicle, so the stress was trying to rig the boat while making sure the weren't running around a dangerous parking lot or in the water where boats were coming in and out. If you can, get someone to watch the kids during this part. But if not, what I would do now is launch the boat without rigging and drag it over to a beach to rig it there. Even if it took more trips walking back and forth, at least you are with your kids and removed from the vehicle and dock movement.
Also, tip to everyone, please roll down your window at least a bit when you are backing down to the ramp. There's a lot going on and it's just a good idea to be able to hear someone yell if you are in danger of hitting someone or something.
Great story, great dad/son time, great advice re tether, food.
Two things I used to do with my son, when he was younger than yours: I had a pack basket that could be secured in the middle of the boat, with a cushion for him. He was also secured with a long enough lead that he could help me steer. We also went to the boat show every year to get his new jacket. They grow fast, don't they.
Awesome, thanks! You are right about the launching and tearing down. When my kids got a bit older they couldn't stay in the vehicle, so the stress was trying to rig the boat while making sure the weren't running around a dangerous parking lot or in the water where boats were coming in and out. If you can, get someone to watch the kids during this part. But if not, what I would do now is launch the boat without rigging and drag it over to a beach to rig it there. Even if it took more trips walking back and forth, at least you are with your kids and removed from the vehicle and dock movement.
Also, tip to everyone, please roll down your window at least a bit when you are backing down to the ramp. There's a lot going on and it's just a good idea to be able to hear someone yell if you are in danger of hitting someone or something.