Kayak Instructor Certification
The American Canoe Association certifies all kinds of paddlers, including kayak instructors. Candidates for certification must be at least 18 years of age and have First Aid/CPR or Wilderness First Aid certification. They must also take several courses specific to kayaking and pass a certification test. The association offers several levels of certification, including basic, coastal and whitewater levels.
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Introduction to Kayaking
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At the first level, candidates must successfully complete an instructor certification workshop. Afterwards, in the introduction to kayaking they will learn the basic kayak paddle strokes and maneuvers, demonstrate the ability to teach basic rescue techniques and demonstrate ability to teach several skills, including safety issues, hypothermia prevention and treatment, boat traffic awareness and the structure of the kayak.
Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor
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At the second level, candidates learn more advanced techniques in areas such as safety, maneuvering the kayak, rescue, and weather and tide conditions important to the kayaker.
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Coastal Kayaking
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Level three certification is coastal kayaking. In addition to basic knowledge of safety and maneuvering of the kayak, the instructor must learn edge awareness and control; various rescue techniques, including rolling techniques; environmental stewardship and conservation; communication and signaling, such as radio and smoke signals; and leadership, judgment and group management.
Whitewater Kayaking
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In level four, whitewater kayaking, instructors must have all the previous instruction and understand river features and how to use them; river signaling; trip planning; maps and guide books; teaching and learning theory, such as how to teach different types of learners; and how to perform reliable kayak rolls that prevent injury. There is also an advanced whitewater kayaking certification.
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References
- Photo Credit kayak image by saidin b jusoh from Fotolia.com
