Scuba diving can be a great option for family adventures or to teach children science and the environment. Scuba diving is an excellent way to bring the family to the tropics and teach the children responsible behavior. Understanding self-discipline is essential as well as abstract concepts and maturity. Kids need to learn responsibility and self-esteem. Parents need to be aware of the fact that this activity is both engaging and motivating for their kids.
Safety concerns for children diving
Scuba diving with children poses some safety risks. Children under 8 years old may be at risk from pulmonary barotrauma. These dangers should not be overlooked. Parents must make sure their children are properly trained to dive. If they have medical conditions, parents should not allow their children to scuba dive. A divemaster should also supervise children who are not comfortable diving alone.
For children, the primary risk factor is inexperience of adults who are responsible for the safety of the divers. Children can be more distracted than experienced divers because they have different mindsets. Parents should ensure that their child is paired with an experienced adult. The experienced adult will be able to deal with the child's attention span and ability to get distracted by shiny objects. Furthermore, an experienced adult will be able to closely monitor the child’s air consumption as well as their swimming position and rate of ascent.
Equipment to hire as a child for scuba diving
There are many things you should take into consideration when renting equipment for scuba-diving for kids. Although it may seem cheaper to buy new equipment, it is often not possible to return it after it has been used. If you have more than one child in your family, you may want to hire equipment until the child has grown enough to use it on their own. Rental gear is also more cost-effective than buying a full package. Do not buy scuba equipment for children. You want to ensure they are safe.
Although wetsuits don't weigh as much as scuba tank, they should still be able to fit your child. Most often, a 7- or 10-litre cylinder will be sufficient. A carry handle makes it easier to transport. It is important that wetsuits are not too loose or flexible. Your child will soon grow out of them. You may also want to hire a jacket with ample straps. The jacket should fit comfortably, but allow your child to grow into it.
Age restrictions for scuba diving for kids
While children under the age of ten can pursue a certification course, most scuba organizations start their courses for kids at 10 years old. Children must take the same exams and read the same materials as adults. So it's important that you choose a program that meets their needs. Once they have the certification, they can dive! Scuba diving is an exciting way to take your child on a new adventure.
Although most agencies offer courses for children as young as 8 years old, they are limited to restricted bodies of water. These children can't dive in open water without being accompanied by an adult with the same certification. PADI and SSI offer certification programs for children. For parents who are interested in learning about scuba diving, see our guide!