If it's not against the law it's just plain stupid to not have them in life jackets. It can save their life. If you were stopped this weekend and cited, then I am sure it is the law. Coasties have far more important things to do than just making stuff up as they go along.
But law or not, put the kids in life jackets... you never know what could happen and that life jacket might be the only thing that saves their life. As a matter of fact, everyone on board should be wearing a life jacket. I don't care if you are Michael Phelps... water can be deadly. Put it on, the life you save might be your own.
Proud mom of
SN Robertson, Colin
USCGC Seneca