I don't agree with those that would wrap the kids in cotton, yet I still respect their opinion and will give the brother the benefit of the doubt and attribute his attitude to his concern for his niece. Hopefully, he will apologise to his sister later.

Having done the puddle jump a couple of times, I absolutely disagree with those who would deem the parents reckless or irresponsible and agree wholeheartedly with Dan Y's comment regarding bringing kids into the world when you have no hope at all of being able to support them without assistance.

Everything I have read seems to indicate that this is a well found and prepared boat (I'm looking forward to hearing more about it being without power and unable to autosteer). I also respect and applaud the kaufmans for their willingness to add the trials of an ocean passage on top of those involved with caring for two young children. I do not believe that such a voyage would be either a positive or a negative for the 1 year old. At that age, their parents is their entire universe whether it be in a house in San Diego or a boat under way. As for the 3 yo, I think she will benefit from it even though as an adult, she may be able to remember it only vaguely.