Boating starts to become a fun activity somewhere between the ages of two and three and continues for a lifetime — so long as we make sure little ones feel comfortable being on the water.  That means starting with short trips surrounded by people who won’t care about being asked the same question 11 times or want to bail when a super-duper temper tantrum erupts.

Safety is always the supreme concern when boating. All children, regardless of age and regulations, should wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets everywhere (except in the cabin). “Swim aids” are not substitutes and life jackets rated for a pool or a lake are inadequate for boating on open waters. The best life jackets keep heads out of the water, turns kids to face up, and have handles for easier retrieval by adults.

Ask a knowledgeable salesperson about fit. The Goldilocks rule applies here — not too tight and not too loose. If it chafes and restricts movement as your child toddles about the store in it, it’s too small. If you can pull the properly fastened jacket over the child’s head when arms are raised, it’s too big.

Don’t subject children to wearing life jackets for the first time aboard. Let them get used to wearing the unfamiliar in familiar places, preferably at home.

When aboard the boat, explain to the toddler that the person driving the boat is in charge. Ask the skipper to make clear that adults and kids need to listen to him or her immediately.  Familiarize the toddler with sensations on the boat and where to sit when the wind blows, the deck rocks, and the speed increases. Start making the child a responsible eco-citizen by stressing that nothing gets thrown overboard.

Toddlers need a lot of stuff and a lot of patience; the more you physically and mentally gear up for boat outings, the better your odds of having more fun than fuss. Yet that dreaded foul mood can arise in a toddler quickly, so what’s the best way you’ve found to stop a tantrum? If it’s a favorite toy, bring it along (but don’t forget to bring it home again, or buy a duplicate for the boat). If a totally new toy does the trick, tuck a few inexpensive items in your supply kit. Should food or drink act as a distraction, be prepared. Letting your toddler help choose the snacks or items in your alfresco picnic may avoid that firm “No!” at the first sign of food.

Try to avoid screen time on the boat. Rather than saying, “Here, watch this,” try “Look at that bird.” Most kids are curious about nature; if you sound engaged and look enchanted by the swooping seagulls, they may be, too.

No matter how much fun you’re all having, try to keep a toddler’s nap time consistent. Make up a comfy spot, cuddle if you can, and let the lulling waves do their magic.

Toddlers are often impetuous and delight in acting mischievously, so never take your eyes off that little one. No boat duties and no ducking below for just a moment without tasking someone else to keep the watch.

Video on choosing the right life jacket