Teach paddling with confidence.

The ACA Instructor's Manual is a field-ready teaching companion for paddlesports instructors. Grounded in the American Canoe Association's Safety Education & Instruction approach, it helps you turn solid skills into clear, safe, and engaging instruction whether you're teaching first-time paddlers, coaching developing students, or leading staff and volunteer programs.

Inside you'll find: Teaching principles, lesson organization, and risk management for on-water classesSkill progressions and feedback cues for efficient strokes, maneuvers, and boat controlGuidance for planning sessions, briefing participants, managing groups, and adapting to venue and conditionsRescue and self-rescue considerations that support safer paddlers and safer learning environmentsWho it's for: ACA-certified instructors, instructor trainers, guides, trip leaders, camp and scout staff, and anyone responsible for teaching paddling skills and safety.

Use this manual alongside ACA discipline/course curricula and local standards to plan, teach, and debrief sessions that are safe, inclusive, and fun.