Catch Their First Wave: Tips for Teaching Kids to Surf

Teaching a stoked grom (kid) to surf can be one of the most rewarding ways to share your love for the ocean. It’s not just about catching waves—it’s about creating a positive and encouraging first experience that lays the foundation for a lifetime of surfing, overcoming challenges, and immersing in an environment much bigger than themselves.

Here are some practical tips to help make that happen:

1. Choose the Right Spot (and the Right Day)

Find a beach with soft, gentle waves and minimal crowds.  A sandy bottom is ideal since kids tend to tumble off their boards often. Gentle waves help build confidence while keeping the experience fun.

Keep in mind, the ocean is always changing. Even the most mellow longboard wave can be big, powerful, and scary on the wrong day.  Sometimes the lesson might be as simple as "notice anything different today? Maybe we eat donuts on the beach and watch the big surf."

2. Use the Right Equipment

A foamie surfboard is the way to go for kids. It’s more forgiving if they fall and offers plenty of stability for balancing. Pair the board with a snug-fitting wetsuit to keep them warm and comfortable, so they can focus on having fun.

When deciding which foamie to get, keep in mind that a longer one like the 8'0 R-Series will be more forgiving for glide, wave-catching, and stability. If you want them to feel what it feels like to ride a wave, this is the board to start them on.

However, as their skills improve and they want to start feeling more control over the board, step down to the 6'4 Pleasant Pheasant.  Before you know it, this kid will be paddling into waves on their own and asking to step down even further to the 5'4".

3. Make Sure They Are Comfortable in the Waves Without a Board, Before Introducing a Large Flotation Device

This might sound contradictory, but in my opinion, you want to be sure that kids are at least reasonably comfortable in the surf zone without any flotation devices before you throw them on a board.  It will help them feel more comfortable when they know how to duck under a wave, or what getting hit with some whitewash feels like.  The surfboard is an added variable that makes things more challenging and can make the ocean feel more foreign. Spend some time just splashing in waist deep water before you reach for a board.

4. Start on the Sand

Before paddling out, practice the basics on dry land. Teach them how to lay on the board, find the right paddling position, and pop up into a standing position. Repetition on the sand will help them feel more comfortable when they’re in the water.

5. Stay Close and Give Encouragement

When you’re in the water, stay close to your child. Help them position the board, give them a little push to catch their first waves, and cheer them on as they stand up (even if it’s only for a second!). Celebrate every small success—it’s all about building their confidence.

6. Keep It Fun and Short

Remember, the goal is for them to enjoy their time in the water. Kids’ attention spans are short, and they may tire out quickly. Keep the session lighthearted, and end on a high note when they’re still having fun.

7. Set Realistic Expectations

Every surfer falls, especially when starting out. Teach your child that wipeouts are part of the process and nothing to be afraid of. If they’re having a tough time, reassure them that every surfer had to start somewhere.

By keeping the focus on fun, patience, and encouragement, you can create a memorable and positive first surfing experience for the young surfer in your life. Who knows? This could be the start of a lifelong passion for the waves!