WATER PLAY FOR ALL AGES We all can’t wait for summer to break from harrowing schedules, hours of homework, and making lunches; but we forget the kids will be home 24/7, boredom sets in by 10 a.m., and by July, you have likely visited every park, pool, and VBS program in the area.
On one of your many trips to Centennial Beach you may not have even noticed that every morning from 9-10 a.m. there is paddleboarding at the quarry by the kayaks and paddleboats. Yes – this is new this year; and yes, you can do them any morning, 7 days a week. There is no set minimum age to use the paddleboards or kayaks, but kids must demonstrate good motor control and body awareness to use them (typically about 9 years old).
I took my girls and a couple of their friends to try them out. After a short introduction at the Quarry, they were off on the water to use the paddleboards freely and independently. They raced each other; splashed each other, and eventually found the board to be a great island oasis for tanning. It was music to my girls ears that they could be on the water without me since they were over 13 and I had signed a waiver; yet, they are willing to let me tag along for their next adventure, so they can take the paddleboards and kayaks on a self-guided DuPage or Fox River tour – both of which simply require a parent on the water for anyone under 18.
If your kids are even younger - No problem! The double kayaks are also perfectly suited for kids as young as 3 years old to explore the Quarry with mom or dad. Better yet, leave the kids at home and enjoy a perfect date or girls day on the river! Make some memories #Summer2017.
Overview Naperville Kayak is focused beginner and recreational kayaking and paddleboarding offering dedicated times at the Naperville Quarry; as well as, self-guided and guided tour options on the DuPage and Fox Rivers with convenient launches in Naperville, Plainfield, and Oswego.
Naperville Kayak and Paddleboarding Naperville Quarry, DuPage River Oswego, Fox River Plainfield, DuPage River
(630) 300-4527 www.NapervilleKayak.com
Hours: May through October; Times vary depending on location/rental/tour.
Price $: Prices vary depending on activity/location.
ABOUT THE WRITER Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy.
