My 170CC came with a bow rail. I think it lasted 3 trips before I removed it and put in a trolling motor. I did add the smaller grab rails to assist in moving around in a rocking boat. My kids are a little older (14 & 13) but have been in boats since they were very young. Try as I might I still haven't found a way to lose them out of the boat
. My advice, ditch the bow rail and insist on everyone wearing life jackets. Good luck with the top brass.