Walk down to the waterfront, boats are moving in every direction and the people aboard them enjoy a sun-soaked day in eastern North Carolina.

There are many residents who don’t have the means to get out on the river to enjoy a fun-filled day on the water. The Pamlico-Tar River Foundation is trying to change that with its Youth Kayaking Program.

Last week PTRF’s Youth Kayaking Program started and took the Boys & Girls Club of Beaufort County members out onto Chocowinity Bay.

Many of the children who participated in the Boys & Girls Club paddle last week had never been on a boat or on a kayak.

Throughout the summer, PTRF staff plans to extend the invitation to scout troops and other children’s organizations, to give many the chance to paddle on the Pamlico River.

Organizers want all children in Beaufort County to experience the Youth Kayaking Program, and have opened the kayaking experience to any child between the ages of nine and 18.

PTRFs Beaufort County open invitation for the youth kayak is July 23, and spots are limited.

Experiencing new things is one of the most important things for children, and not only for kids, but for everybody.

During the summer, however, most children are less interested in traditional education. Some of the children coming off the water during the Boys & Girls Club kayak enjoyed learning about the creatures that call the local waters home.  PTRF educates the area’s youth without making them feel like they are in front of a chalkboard. They are teaching, while giving them a chance to experience something they otherwise would not have the opportunity to do.

One child said she really enjoyed learning about the amphibians and said with a glowing smile on her face.

Seeing a child’s face light up when they learn something, no doubt makes all those involved with youth kayaking program very happy, indeed.