Family surfing is much more than a shared sport: it's a connection with nature, constant learning, and, above all, teamwork fun. Introducing your children to surfing can become a transformative experience for everyone. At Fly, we give you the keys to do it safely, progressively, and, above all, fun.
At what age can children start surfing?
While every child is different, many can start surfing from 5 or 6 years old. However, beyond age, the most important thing is to consider three key aspects:
- That they are confident in the water.
- That they can follow basic instructions.
- That they associate surfing with play and exploration, not pressure.
Additionally, if your child already enjoys the sea, loves splashing in the shallows, or sliding with a bodyboard, it's a very good sign that they are ready to try surfing for the first time.
What equipment do you need for family surfing?
Both safety and comfort are essential for a positive experience from the start. Below, we share the basic recommended equipment for beginner surfers who want to enjoy surfing as a family:
- Appropriate surfboard
It is highly recommended to use a large and stable softboard, like the Fly Double Agent or the Cold Hawaii. These boards are designed to facilitate learning: they are safe, padded, very buoyant, and even allow children to ride with you on the same wave.
- Comfortable children's wetsuit
Depending on the season and water temperature, choose wetsuits that keep warm without restricting movement. During the summer, you can also opt for a shorty or a UV-protective rash guard.
- Sun protection
It's a must-have: a floating hat, water-resistant sunscreen, and UV-filter rash guards are essential to protect children's skin during sessions.
How to do your first surf session with your children?
Organizing the first water experience requires planning, but also a lot of flexibility. Here are some practical tips:
1. Keep it short and fun
First, it's important to keep sessions brief. A maximum of 45 to 60 minutes is usually sufficient. Remember: the key is that they want to come back. If at any point they feel tired or scared, get out of the water without forcing the situation.
2. Snacks and rest
After surfing, a good break with water, fruit, or a salty snack can be part of the experience. In fact, a post-surf picnic is often one of the children's favorite moments.
3. Adapt to sea conditions
Before entering, make sure the conditions are calm and safe. Look for beaches with sandy bottoms, light wind, and small, foamy waves, ideal for learning. On the contrary, avoid days with strong swells or currents.
Benefits of family surfing
Practicing surfing with your children is not only fun: it also strengthens family bonds and promotes essential values that will accompany them throughout their lives. Some of the most important benefits are:
- Resilience and patience: they learn that falling is part of the process and that trying again is part of the game.
- Mutual trust: the child knows you are there, guiding and supporting them.
- Respect for the ocean: they develop a healthy relationship with the sea and nature from an early age.
- Active life without screens: a healthy, outdoor, and active lifestyle is encouraged.
What if you're also learning to surf?
Even better! Learning at the same time as your children can become a unique experience. Sharing that process where you all celebrate progress, overcome frustrations, and learn together strengthens family bonds.
In addition, at Fly, we have multifunctional boards designed for both adults and children who are just starting. This way, you can also progress safely.
Key tips for surfing with your children
Here's a summary of best practices to make every session a success:
- Choose the right spot: a quiet beach, with a sandy bottom, no currents, and low tide.
- Start in the foam or “white water”: it's the safest environment to learn without fear.
- Don't pressure them: if they don't want to or are having a bad day, respect it. The important thing is that they enjoy themselves.
- Celebrate every small achievement: even if they only manage to lie on the board.
- Use play as a tool: paddling like a dolphin, looking for shells, or sliding on their knees can be as fun as catching a wave.
Conclusion
In summary, family surfing is a unique way to create memories, foster values, and stay active outdoors. With the right attitude, equipment, and a lot of desire to enjoy, you and your children can start this adventure in the sea and grow together on every wave.
