- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Let's Go Fly a Kite
Old-fashioned Family Fun
By Teri Brown
There is some simple kite terminology you should master before flying or building your own kite.
Sail: This is the part of the kite that catches the wind. It is usually made of fabric or a durable paper.
Frame: This is the part of the kite that keeps the sail in place.
Spars: These are the parts making up the frame. The one running from top to bottom is called a longeron or the spine. The one running across the width of the kite is the spar bar or crass bar.
Bridle: These are strings that attach the flying line to the spars or the sail, and there may be one or more legs attached to various places of the kites. On some kites, the bridle is adjustable.
Tow Point: This is the part of the kite where the bridle meets the line.
Flying Line: This is the line from the reel to the kite.
Reel or Winder: This is the part you hang on to. All the line is wound onto the reel.
Tail: The kite tail stabilizes the kite and looks awesome. It is usually made of a light-weight material.
Kite flying may seem complicated but it's sort of like riding a bicycle: Once you get the hang of it, you won't ever forget. Follow these simple guidelines form the American Kitefliers Association for a successful kite flying experience for your family:
