Shy Children: Never focus attention on their shyness. Talk about their cute outfit. If they don't warm up tell them you will see them next year. Ask if they want a trading card. Whisper to them that you are just a little boat and you wanted to say, Hi! Say, "Bye, Bye. See you next year." if they become upset, then move on. Never force Coastie on a shy or frightened child. Many need more time to adjust. Often shy kids warm up to Coatie and become his best friend very quickly.Overbearing Children: Say to them that it was nice meeting them, and now you are going to meet some other children. Ask them a question about boating to distract them from whatever they are doing. Ask them to lead the group of kids in a song. Make sure they do not touch any of Coastie's moving parts like his eyes and eye lids. If they don't settle down or the parents do not take control, say, "I will see you next year." and then move on. If they try to climb on Coastie tell them they need a life jacket to go for a boat ride. That always works.

Special Need Children: Ask you Director to help blind children touch Coastie. Children in wheelchairs focus 100% on the child. Mentally challenged kids are vey special to work with and they will generally ask Coastie very good questions. When answering their questions always call them by their name.