Preparing for shifts in the breeze: Building confidence and character through sailing

by Jessica M. Mohler, Psy.D., CC-AASP
Clinical and Sport Psychologist
United States Naval Academy

The summer is about to begin. You may have signed up for summer camps back in January or maybe just last week! But soon, school will break for summer, and we will all make the shift to a different schedule. Some of you may have your children in a sailing program all summer while others may choose one evening a week. In many parts of the country, there are several choices for sailing programs, whether it’s an intense racing program or part of a more diverse day camp. I was recently talking to other parents about summer plans for their children. A number of the parents had decided that sailing was an important skill to teach their children as we live in a boating community. The variety of plans for learning how to sail reminded me of the differences in sailing programs, and also how a parent’s own experiences influence those of their children.

Daily Lift

Things to consider when planning a junior regatta: competitor ability, size of fleet, venue, average wind speed and safety boat/ competitor ratio.

Daily Lift

Not all kids who learn to sail Optimist Dinghies will want to race… and that’s OK! But, every kid should have the opportunity to experience the extra-friendly introductory part of Opti racing, before entering the “competitive” fleets, known as Green Fleet. It’s a great way to become a better sailor and add another exciting dimension to the sport. - Tom Coleman

Daily Lift

Parenting youth sailors tip: While elementary school children are discovering their likes and dislikes, exposing them to a wide range of activities is ideal, including singlehanded and doublehanded dinghies, big boats, cruising and racing. - Jessica Moehler