Kayak Instructional Programs
We offer many kayak instructional programs, listed below. All equipment and supplies are included unless otherwise noted. If you have questions about any of these programs please e-mail the Program Coordinator: Rachel_Iversen@uml.edu
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ACA L1-2 Coastal Kayaking Instructor Workshop
June 2-5, 2013, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Minimum 3, Maximum 10
$400
This course, run by an Instructor Trainer (IT) certified by the American Canoe Association, is for participants who would like to become instructors and teach Level 1 and/or Level 2 Coastal Kayaking courses. During the Development Workshop participants will have their paddling skills, technical knowledge, rescue ability, teaching ability, group management and interpersonal skills assessed based on standards established by the ACA Safety Education & Instruction Council. This course will include an Instructor Development Workshop (IDW/ICW), where the IT will review all areas that must be mastered for certification. This course also includes the Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) where participants' skills will be assessed and they may receive a recommendation for either Level 1 or Level 2 Instructor Certification.
Essential Eligibility Criteria: (copied from the ACA website)
In order to participate in an Instructor Development Workshop (IDW), an
Instructor Candidate must satisfy the following essential eligibility criteria:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be a current ACA member in good standing
- Be able to independently participate in all skills activities and rescues listed in the appropriate
- ACA Certification Course Outline and Instructor Criteria (L1 & L2) documents
- Be able to effectively communicate with the Instructor Trainer and other course participants
- Be able to manage all personal care and mobility independently
Participants must bring their own kayak and equipment.
Questions or Concerns? contact: Rachel_Iversen@uml.edu
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Introduction to Kayaking
Two days, 3-hour sessions or one day, 8-hour session.
Minimum 2, Maximum 10
$100/person
This six to eight hour course follows ACA Level 1 and some Level 2 curricula. We focus on helping participants develop skills in flatwater kayaking. We will start by developing an understanding of the paddling environment, personal preparation, and equipment use. Then we will teach rescue techniques, maneuvers, and paddle strokes with plenty of practice. Cost includes use of all equipment. This course is designed for adults, but children, ages fourteen and up, are welcome to participate with a parent.
Dates:
Quick Start to Flatwater Kayaking
1 day, 2-hour session
Minimum 2, Maximum 12
$30/person
Quick Start to Flatwater Kayaking is a two-hour program designed to give participants a jump start in kayak skills. This clinic emphasizes safety and basic skill development in recreational kayaks. Participants will learn about on-water safety, equipment use, and paddling strokes in this experiential course. This course is designed for adults, but children, ages fourteen and up, are welcome to participate with a parent.
Dates:
Quick Start Families
1 day, 2-hour session
Minimum 2, Maximum 12
$45 for 1 adult and 1 child
We are offering a special quick start course in July that is open to families in order for parents and children, brothers and sisters, aunts, and uncles to learn together. Children of all ages are welcome to participate with a parent.
Dates:
Kayaking Kids Instructional Program
Three mornings/week, 3-hour sessions
Minimum 2, Maximum 8
$100/person
This fun instructional program runs for nine hours over three days and combines basic kayak skill development and environmental stewardship with team building activities for a truly unique experience. First and foremost, participants will learn how to be safe and have fun on the water. They will learn about river ecology while paddling beside ducks and herons, and gain self-confidence and teamwork skills through team building initiatives. Appropriate for kids ten to thirteen years old. To ensure your spot for this program, register in advance.
Dates:
Free Kayak Kids Open House
- July 3, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Free
For those who want to learn more about what Kayaking Kids are all about, join us for this free open house. Plan to spend at least an hour while we play some games, take you on the water, and explore together. Family members are encouraged to participate together.
Kayaking Teens Instructional Program
Four mornings/week, 4-hour sessions
Minimum 4, Maximum 8
$125/person
This is a new addition to our Summer programs. For those who have aged out of kayak kids and who are seeking more paddling adventures, join us for a week of exploration. After a day of safety and paddling instruction on the Merrimack River, we will venture out to some of the varied waterways that surround Lowell. Northern and Central Massachusetts offer great opportunities to experience a diversity of maritime environments including slow and fast-moving rivers, ponds, and marshland. We will explore many of these during this week-long adventure. Apropriate for kids fourteen to seventeen years old.
Dates: