My kids complain about getting tired while paddling (the wimps!) I think one problem is the leaden "recreational paddles" we bought when we got our first two plastic sit-on-tops. I think they're incredibly heavy, and I'm much stronger and more patient than they.

I just bought my wife a short, narrow bladed carbon fiber paddle. When my kids felt it and how light it is, I could see their attitudes towards paddling shifting a bit.

It's extravagent to buy a youngster an expensive paddle if you don't know if she'll stick with the sport. But if you want her to stick with the sport you might consider it. (Catch-22)