Great for a first lesson or younger kids, a tow line can teach steering and get kids used to the boat without them feeling fully out of control. Starting with a tow line can help kids get more comfortable more quickly, and help build their confidence before they are chucked in the deep end.
Teaching Points:
- Steering
- Looking Forwards
- Holding the tiller extension
- Sail trim
- Tacking/gybing
Modifications:
- If it’s a super windy day, you can even do a tow line with the sails down so at least they get on the water and have a fun time
- Have them start out not adjusting the main sheet at all, just focussing on steering, and then once they have mastered the straight line you can get them to play around with the main sheet
- Guide them through lots of tacks and gybes so they are used to the sail switching sides, and so they know that you can predict it