Paddle and steer as a crew
Ready when: First session on the water (b4) done; an adult paddles in each canoe.
What the coach teaches
A shared rhythm (counting aloud, then silent); the front paddler sets the pace and the back paddler steers; strokes that turn the canoe on the spot, curve it round and stop it; each child steering once.
At home, safe only
Command game: traffic light (b3) on land, with one caller setting the beat for everyone.
Ask the club
Whether it has open or team canoes for children; the adult-to-child ratio per boat.
What you can see from the side
The crew's paddles enter the water together.
Self-check what the coach confirms
The crew keeps one rhythm for 20 strokes in a row.
Stop and get a coach when
A child is cold or frightened; never capsize a canoe with young children on purpose.
Intermediate is done when the coach agrees the paddler's technique holds up over a long session.
awiseathlete.com/sports/canoe-kayak/canoe-kayak-i5