Kite flying
is becoming a very popular hobby for kids and
adults. It is an ideal hobby for children because
it is great fun, it can be done anywhere and the kids will be
outdoors in the fresh air. It is an activity that will keep them
amused for hours. In fact, you can begin
flying kites right it your own
neighborhood under the proper conditions. Your collection can
eventually grow to include a variety of different types of
kites to be used for different types of weather conditions.
How to Begin with Kite Flying...
It is
easy to get started in Kite Flying.
You
really do not need anything but a kite, proper weather and an
open location. The first thing to do is
to select or make a kite. Click here
instructions on making your own kite.
Making a kite is often a fun activity that will generate excitement
as well give your child a sense of pride.
Once you have
your kite you need to select the proper location. The best
location is somewhere that is open and free from trees, electric
lines or poles. Stay away from roads. The park, beach or
open field are prime locations. The more room that you have the
better for flying the kite.
Next, you must
select a day that has the proper weather conditions. If the wind is
too strong or too light it will make it very difficult to fly the
kite especially for beginners. If the leaves, bushes or flag begin
to move, about 5 -25 mph then it is best for kite flying.
The best kites for medium winds between 6-15 mph are Deltas,
Diamonds and Dragon kites. Box Kites and Stickless Parafoil
Kites you will find fly better in winds at are a little
stronger ranging from 8-25 mph.
Kite Flying Safety Tips
When flying a kite remember the 3 C's of kite
Safety: Caution, Courtesy and Common Sense.
-
Never fly you kite near electric lines or poles.
-
Be aware of
who or what is around you at all times
-
Always fly
away from other kite fliers to avoid other kites, and kite
lines.
-
Stay away from trees.
-
Never
use metal parts or lines
which could attract electricity.
-
Always
be considerate of other people in the area.
-
Never fly a kite in the rain.
-
Never fly your kite near the edge of a hill, cliff or slope.
-
Never climb a
tree, pole or dangerous spot if the kite gets caught.
-
Always
think about safety and what you are doing.
History of Kites
Kites have been
around for two thousand years but it is not known exactly who or
where it was invented. It has, however, been used by many
different cultures for special events. China, Japan and
Thailand have all recorded the use of the kite in their legends. The
earliest written account is in China sothey have been credited with
the invention. In the 13th century Marco Polo, introduced the
kite to Europe. The kite was primarily used for enjoyment, as a toy
for children. In the 18th and 19th
centuries, kites were used tools for scientific research.
Benjamin Franklin used it to prove electricity was present during a
storm. The Wright Brothers experimented with kites to
contribute to development of the airplane.
In WWI armies used kites for
enemy observation and signaling however, as years progressed and the
airplane came into existence, the kite was used less by the
military. Today kites are used by children as well as adults around
the world. There
are kite festivals, kite skiing, kite contests as well as a
variety of styles and shapes. Click here to see pictures of
Kites from Around the World.
