Being a parent to babies and young children is a full-time job, but if you’re a surfer at heart, the call of the waves never fades. Balancing parenthood and personal passions might seem impossible at times, but with a little creativity and planning, you can carve out more time to hit the surf. Here are five practical strategies to help you paddle out more often in 2025:

1. Coordinate with Babysitters or Daycare

Consider enlisting the help of babysitters, family members, or daycare to carve out time for surfing. Scheduling regular times each week for childcare ensures you have dedicated slots to hit the waves without worrying about your little ones. This approach not only gives you peace of mind but also ensures your children are engaged and well cared for.

Pro Tip: Build a network of reliable caregivers and plan surf sessions well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

2. Opt for Midday Surfing During Kids' Activities

Take advantage of times when your kids are occupied with structured activities like playdates, classes, or sports. While they’re having fun and learning, you can sneak away for a midday surf session. This method works especially well if you can find activities close to the beach.

Pro Tip: Pack your surf gear in the car beforehand so you’re ready to go as soon as the kids are dropped off.

3. Combine Family Beach Time with Surf Time

Turn family beach outings into an opportunity for a surf session. While your partner or another family member keeps the kids entertained building sandcastles or playing in the shallows, you can sneak in some waves. It’s a win-win: quality family time and a chance to surf.

Pro Tip: Choose family-friendly beaches with good surf spots nearby to ensure everyone has fun.

4. Join a Surfing Parent Community

There’s strength in numbers, and connecting with other surfing parents can open up opportunities to share childcare duties while catching waves. Create a schedule where parents take turns watching the kids on the beach, giving everyone a chance to surf. Many coastal communities have parent groups or surfing clubs that foster this kind of teamwork.

Pro Tip: Use social media or local community boards to find like-minded parents near your favorite surf spots.

5. Involve Your Kids in the Surf Lifestyle

Introducing your children to the joys of the ocean not only builds their love for the water but can also make surfing a family affair. Toddlers and young children can play in shallow waves, ride boogie boards, or simply enjoy being in the ocean while you stay nearby. As they grow, they might even join you in the lineup!

Pro Tip: Invest in child-sized wetsuits and safety gear so your little ones are comfortable and safe in the water.

Final Thoughts

Finding time to surf as a parent requires patience, planning, and flexibility, but it’s entirely possible to balance your love of surfing with family life. By integrating your passion into your routine and involving your family in your surfing lifestyle, you can stay connected to the waves while creating lasting memories with your kids. Here’s to more surf sessions and salty smiles in 2025!