For the more relaxed, the daring, or those with a special attraction to nature, there's a wide variety of adventure sports for kids.
And you, do you do adventure activities with the little ones? Tell us about it!
We propose 7 super fun activities that will make the rulers of the household have an amazing time:
- Horse Riding. The perfect activity for children who love animals and are drawn to the equestrian world. This activity is available for children ranging from the most recreational to the more technical aspects. Joining a horse ride accompanied by their parents can be a great first contact for very young children.
From about 6 years old, children can do this activity alone (always supervised by an adult, of course) or sign up for riding lessons. You can check all the possibilities on this page.
- Mushing. Riding snow tracks on a dog-sled is an extremely fun and appealing activity for children. It requires no effort, no special skills, and generally has no minimum age requirement. That said, however harmless this activity may seem, as with all activities, minors must be accompanied by an adult and care must be taken as the sled reaches certain speeds and may jerk.
- Surfing. For children who never tire of going in and out of the water, those who enjoy playing with waves and sea lovers, surfing is an interesting alternative. The best age to start surfing is around 5 or 6 years old. It might be a bit early if you're just looking for holiday beach entertainment, for which we'd recommend other activities, but it's ideal for progressive learning. The essential requirement for surfing is knowing how to swim.
- Diving. Children are fascinated by diving equipment (here we show you everything about it) and the idea of exploring the depths of the sea. To do it professionally, they'll need to wait a few years, but there are several options to give them a taste. According to PADI regulations, children can have their first diving experience through courses like SASY (Supplied Air Snorkeling for Youth), Bubblemaker, Seal Team or Junior Diver, among others.
The SASY programme has no minimum age requirement. Children are equipped with a flotation device that simulates diving gear. They'll snorkel using an air supply system.
The Bubblemaker is available for children aged 8+. It's a pool dive supervised by a PADI instructor. Children use special diving equipment to make bubbles underwater and play games practising breathing techniques.
For children aged 8+, there's also the Seal Team - exciting underwater missions practising different diving techniques.
For the next level, from age 10 they can do the Junior Open Water Diver, and from 12 years, the Junior Advanced Open Water, Junior Rescue Diver or Junior Master Scuba Diver.
- Multi-Activity Circuits. These circuits are typically set in nature and combine activities like aerial bridges, nets, climbing walls or zip lines of varying heights and difficulties. There are circuits designed for very young children through to more "challenging" ones for older kids.
These multi-activity parks are perfect for school groups or families wanting a fun day out. Find options near you in our zip line section.
- Hiking. The wildcard of adventures. With its endless possibilities, hiking is an activity adaptable to all ages and levels. A simple countryside walk is a great way to introduce children to adventure sports and instil a love for nature.
- Tandem Paragliding. What child hasn't dreamed of flying like their favourite superhero? Paragliding in tandem is suitable for children as young as 3. They simply ride as passengers with no special skills required. Often, children are braver than adults and likely won't experience vertigo.
A great option for children to try adventure sports are multi-activity camps. Here, besides learning values of community living, they'll spend unforgettable days enjoying nature activities like treasure hunts, orienteering games, canoeing,...
These are just some ideas, but most sports on Yumping offer options for children. However, despite this possibility, it's important to be responsible and assess children's maturity levels. Though leisure activities often presented as games, they must understand potential risks to behave appropriately.
Children's participation in adventure sports should focus on enjoyable hobby development. Above all, don't force them - if they dislike an activity, don't make them continue. Consider their interests and abilities when choosing suitable activities.
Important Notes
For water sports, they must swim; aerial activities require no fear of heights; animal sports need comfort around animals... logical considerations that can sometimes be overlooked.
Sports are very healthy and make excellent leisure alternatives for all. Starting young helps develop healthy, entertaining habits. Share this adventure sports philosophy with children and enjoy it together.
