Stadle, on your first question I would say that a drift is pretty easy to learn how to row, my advice would be to float a few times with a guide or a friend who has plenty of experience behind the sticks. As far as taking your kids I didn't take my kids on the river until they knew how to swim. They have to be strong enough to swim to the bank by themselves if you would happen to fip the boat. I've never rolled a boat but that doesn't mean I won't the next time out. I can only imagine that when you do flip that you won't have time to grab your kids so they must be able to get to the bank on their own..... AS far as brand name I'm sure there are plenty of opinions so you might as well read mine to. Look at the Willie's, Fishrites or Alumaweld.. THere are others out there that are probably just as good but I have no experience with them. Hope I helped alittle..Also, just an obvious point with the kids always make them wear their life jackets!!!!!!!!!