Self Confidence. There is simply nothing like being able to pilot your own craft. Riding a bike is one thing. Skillfully steering and docking a sailboat is quite another. All athletic endeavors help to shape a sense of self as a kid, but those lucky enough to sail will find it without a doubt the one most instrumental.

Spatial Awareness. When kids learn how to navigate a boat through narrow spaces and tight turns — how to avoid collisions, coast to a dock with finesse, or squeeze into a packed starting line at a regatta — the develop a spatial awareness that will bring them prowess in all activities involving coordination. Like driving, for instance.

Sense of Direction. Imagine sailing all week with a class and then venturing out on the water by yourself to explore the lake, noticing which direction you have come from, picking out landmarks and knowing how to get back. That awareness is crucial to having a sense of direction.

Weather Knowledge. Do you know from which direction thunderstorms normally come? Or what the temperature of water normally is? Or how fast and from what direction the wind is blowing? If your child is a sailor, he or she will know. Weather knowledge will come in handy both on the water and on the land.

Shipshape Habits. Sailing students learn how to properly rig and de-rig a boat, how to put things away in the right place and keep them tidy will on the water. That's a skill no mom or dad can argue with.