Someone recently asked if I had a boat that could fit two adults, three kids and a dog. I did, but they wanted one that could be transported on top of their car! 

I'm still looking.

I love it, however, when parents want their children to learn how to sail. That is so much better than sitting in front of a TV or playing computer games. Get the kids out in nature, on the water, in the wind and the sun! 

Many parents consider an Optimist or a Sunfish ideal for learning to sail, but I have a better idea. Help your kids "learn the ropes" of sailing on a family-size boat. It doesn't have to be all that big. Our grandchildren learned in a 12' Kolibri before they were of school age.

Take time to teach your children how to steer, manage sails and hike the boat. Teach them the knots and explain how the boat can move ahead against the wind. Teach them the rules, etiquette and safety regulations of boating. You can even set conditions that must be met before your child gets his or her own boat.

Chances are, your son or daughter will want a sailboat with a main, jib and swing keel after that kind of preparation.

The Laser is a popular boat with young people. Teenagers like speed and excitement and these boats have it!  And youth don't mind getting wet (Hint for parents: It's a great way to get a teenager separated from that cell phone and I-pod. Electronics don't like water!).