Youth Paddling Academy: Skills, Safety & Adventure
The ultimate field trip. Certified instruction for Schools, Scouts, and Camps.
$35 ea.
Book online now!
Turn a fun day out into a life skill. Putting a group of youth in canoes can be daunting for any leader. You want them to have fun, but safety is the priority. Our Learning to Paddle program strikes the perfect balance. We don’t just put kids in boats; we teach them how to command them. Led by Paddle Canada Certified instructors, this program builds confidence, teamwork, and respect for the water—all while meeting the standards for badges and outdoor education credits.
Get with the program
Classroom on the Water This isn’t just a rental; it’s a school. We cover the fundamentals of both canoeing and kayaking. Students learn proper paddle strokes, how to balance their craft, and how to work together in tandem canoes. It’s a hands-on lesson in physics, communication, and coordination.
Safety is the Curriculum We take safety seriously. Beyond just paddling, we teach water safety awareness, proper PFD fitting, and basic self-rescue techniques. We empower your youth to understand the risks and how to manage them, turning them into responsible outdoorsmen and women.
Tailored to Your Troop Whether you are a Scout troop looking to earn a paddling badge, a school class fulfilling a Phys-Ed requirement, or a summer camp looking for a day trip, we adapt the curriculum to your needs. We can focus on certification, fun, or team building.
The Field Trip Plan
Book the group. We handle the rest.
- Coordinate: Contact us to set your date and group size (10–50+ youth). We can host at Bingemans, Brant Park, or other suitable locations.
- Gear Up: We provide professional-grade boats, paddles, and properly fitted PFDs for every student.
- Ground School: We start on land with safety briefings and equipment familiarization.
- On the Water: Our instructors lead the group onto flatwater for drills, games, and skill-building exercises.
Highlights
- Certified Instruction: All sessions led by Paddle Canada Certified instructors.
- Badge Ready: Curriculum aligns with Scouts, Guides, and Waterfront Certification requirements.
- Scalable: We can handle small troops or large school groups (up to 50+).
- Safety Focused: Emphasis on self-rescue and risk management.
What’s included
- Professional Instruction (Paddle Canada Standards).
- Rental of Canoes and Kayaks.
- All Safety Gear (PFDs, Safety Kits).
- Waterfront Certification (upon successful completion of requirements).
What to Bring
- Water & Lunch: Kids get hungry! Ensure everyone has a packed lunch and water bottle.
- Sun Protection: Hats and sunscreen are mandatory.
- Active Clothing: Swimwear or quick-drying clothes. No denim/jeans.
- Footwear: Water shoes or strap-on sandals (crocs/flip-flops are discouraged).
Need to know
- Group Size: Designed for groups of 10 to 50+.
- Ages: Suitable for youth of all ages (elementary through high school).
- Duration: Flexible. Available as Half-Day, Full-Day, or Multi-Day programs.
- Chaperones: We recommend leaders/teachers accompany the group (ratio depends on age).
Disclaimer
Participants must acknowledge and accept all inherent risks associated with paddling and outdoor activities offered by Grand Experiences. All participants release and waive any claims against Grand Experiences, its staff, affiliates, and property owners for any injury, loss, or damage incurred during participation. Each participant is responsible for their own safety and for any minor children in their care. A properly fitted lifejacket must be worn at all times while on the water.