Hello, Adventurers! Welcome first-timers to the Coastal Expeditions blog! If you love the outdoors, exploring nature, and learning about animals, you’ve come to the right place! Here on the Coastal Expeditions blog we dive deep into different habitats, excursions, conservation efforts and nature programs. To our return readers, welcome back! We commend you for being committed to learning! Our previous post about national catfish month is a deep-dive into “mudcats,” their habitats, and why we value them! Once you’re done reading this article, we suggest giving that article a read!

 

Today, we want to inform you of a fun, educational program we’re offering for children between the ages of nine and twelve! The After School Sea Kayaking Program is an adventure for young explorers and a great way to spend time in the afternoons. In this article, we’ll go over why after school programs are essential for kids right now, what they can expect to learn from the program, and details you’ll need to know before signing up!

 

Back to School Jitters

 

Returning to school is rarely a child’s favorite time of the year. The end of summer can bring back-to-school jittery feelings, anxiety about upcoming assignments, and social pressure for kids. However, this year’s return-to-school is particularly challenging, as students either return to in-class learning or continue their virtual education. The past eighteen months have been rife with shutdowns, sudden changes, and loss. During the pandemic, parents reported a 4% increase in the rate of depression among their children. Likewise, they reported a 6% increase in anxiety, a 9% increase in psychological stress, and a 22% increase in overall worsened mental or emotional health. These statistics paint a stark picture and act as a reminder of how children need our support now more than ever.

 

Benefits of Exploring

 

The benefits of exploring in nature are multifaceted. For adults, going on a hike or for a walk can lower stress levels and restore a sense of calm. The same is true for children, but the benefits might last longer than a single afternoon. According to studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice, after school programs can have marked positive effects on a child’s academic performance. This might include test scores, attendance, engagement during class, higher rates of matriculation, and more. Further, after school programs are training grounds for necessary interpersonal skills and can promote the development of self-confidence, leadership, and critical thinking.

 

Structured physical activities, such as the tour highlighted here today, improve overall physical wellness. This is a great way for students to express their excess energy after a long day seated at a desk or staring at a computer screen. Exercise is a vital component to building strong bones and muscles, increasing self-esteem, reinforcing cognitive skills, and maintaining a positive outlook on the future. Especially for kids. Especially right now.

 

Learning Opportunities

 

Students enrolled in the program will learn the basics of sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. As well, they will learn the necessary precautions to ensure they’re safely and effectively enjoying their new sport. With our knowledgeable paddling instructors and their minds open to the wonder of nature, there’s no end to the amount of information they’ll retain from their time in the program. Here’s a brief overview of what they’ll learn!

 

Proper Sea Kayak Entrance and Exit

 

Learning the proper procedures for entering and exiting a kayak is essential, since these are the points at which a kayaker is most vulnerable to capsizing. Assuming you don’t have a partner to stabilize your kayak, you must know how to perform these maneuvers alone. We’ll provide students with a set of steps to maximize their kayaking success!

 

    Paddle Strokes

 

How you paddle affects the direction and speed of your kayak, not unlike the wheel of your car directs its forward motion. There are a few essential paddling strokes to know before hoping in the water. We’ll teach the students correct hand placement, wrist motion, and form to paddle effortlessly through the water!

 

    Towing

 

Towing is the act of tying one kayak to another and hauling the second kayak. Kayaking can be a fun sport to perform with friends. In the case of an emergency, it’s important for students to have the tools and knowledge they need to assist one another. Towing is an essential safety skill!

 

    How to Create a Float Plan

 

A float plan is a document which details where you plan to “float,” or paddle, and how authorities can find you in the case of an emergency. It’s always better to have a plan, rather than charging out onto the water without anyone knowing where you’re headed. We’ll teach students how to read tide tables, check weather, and perform other safety measures ahead of a trip!

 

    Caring for Equipment

 

Caring for equipment might include proper storage and drying gear off. The important thing here is to teach students how to take care of their equipment and ensure its functional use for many years to come!

 

    Bird Identification

 

Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary at Shem Creek hosts several species of nesting seabirds in the summer months. Species native to the area are egrets, gulls, and herons—all visible from the comfortable seat of a kayak. Our paddling instructors will point out species and help students learn to identify them themselves!

 

    Shark Tooth Hunting

 

There are several species of shark which call the South Carolina coast home and, in our post ‘Fact vs. Fiction: Clearing Up Myths About Sharks For Shark Awareness Day,’ we go in-depth about the various types. Chances are students will be able to spot sharks teeth in the sand, collect a keepsake, and even identify from which species the tooth came from!

 

    Estuary Dynamics

 

An estuary is the tidal mouth of a large river. Or, where the river meets the sea. This lush environmental phenomenon is a haven to species because of its nutrient-density. The ecosystems and fluid dynamics within an estuary are what we’ll be learning about and we hope you’re excited to begin!

 

    Local History

 

Shem Creek was home to the Sewee native American tribe (the name of the creek is derived from native word “shemee”). Later, in the 1700s, shipbuilders called this place home. Our instructors will teach about the storied history of the creek and Charleston harbor during the tour!

 

About the Program

 

The After School Sea Kayaking Program is a month-long program. Students between the ages of nine and twelve will meet once a week (Tuesdays from 4 pm to 5:30 pm). There are three sessions available during Fall 2021. Session one meets on September 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th. Session two meets on October 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th. Session three is offered on November 2nd, 9th, 16th, 30th. Enrollment is on a month by month basis and filled by first come, first served. That said, you can sign up whenever and for as many sessions as you want! Keep in mind, there are only twelve spots available in each session. You’ll want to book earlier rather than later!

 

According to Charleston Magazine, “The folks at Coastal Expeditions will have you so mesmerized in fact, that you won’t realize all the teaching taking place.” We pride ourselves on our engaging, knowledgeable paddling instructors. Katie Morrisson is the lead guide for this program. She’ll be assisted by one other instructor. Katie is the Education Coordinator at Coastal Expeditions and directs our summer camps and school field trip programs throughout the year. A South Carolina native, Katie was raised on Folly Island where she found her passion for marine life and salt marsh estuaries.  She holds a degree from Sewanee in Environmental Studies and has certifications in sea kayaking, lifeguarding, first aid & CPR.

 

The program will always start at the Coastal Expeditions Flagship Campus. Our destination is always Shem Creek and Charleston Harbor. All gear and equipment is included in the cost of the program. Per student, the cost is $225.

 

If you’re interested in booking a session for your child, follow this link to the program homepage. We’re excited to get out into nature and learn with your little ones! Coastal Expeditions offers nature tours, kayak rentals, paddleboard rentals, island tours, kid-friendly tours and chances to explore the Lowcountry! Check out our various offerings and find which one suits you and your adventurous spirit! Our tours are led by knowledgeable, approachable naturalists and sea captains who are eager to answer your questions! Read up new experiences being offered by Coastal Expeditions on this blog. Until next time, readers. Get out there and explore! Adventure awaits!