Families can learn surfing together because everyone moves at their own pace. Beginner lessons are in shallow water with everyone together and no swimming issues.
The dry land lesson teaches the fundamentals and everyone learns them before entering the water. Special considerations are made in the techniques for kids 10 and under.
Parents are often faster learners than teens surprisingly enough. Age is functional not chronological and parents are often better learners. They also listen more intently. If see the kids minds wandering and they then have difficulties in the water.
At the Beginning
When I teach, I start by pushing everyone into the waves which makes the important stand up techniques the focus. In a short time, however, I have everyone paddling for their own waves which steps up the game.
The whole thrill is catching waves and feeling the propulsion of natural power pushing the surf board. Even students that have difficulties are having great fun. A surf board is a super boogie board.
I find that in an hour and a half lesson, 99% of students have learned to stand and ride the surf board. Being over weight is the biggest hindrance. Sometimes kids cannot learn, but I find most adults are successful.
Why Its Fun
Its a great family activity because everyone gets to watch everyone else and I am sure the lunch and dinner conversations are fun in the recap. Once everyone has had some success, it is natural to rent boards and try again together without lessons. Many are renting boards the same day.
Families can learn to surf together and share the memories forever. We take pictures for their albums and Face Book so they can share the joy.