Scuba diving is a wonderful choice whether you're looking for an exciting family adventure or a unique way of teaching your children science and the natural world. Scuba diving with kids is a wonderful way to bond as a family and to teach children the importance of responsible behavior. The importance of self-discipline, abstractions, and maturity are essential for children. They must learn self-esteem and responsibility. Parents should be aware that this activity can be both engaging and empowering for their children.
Safety concerns with scuba diving for children
Scuba diving for children has certain safety concerns. Children under eight are at risk of pulmonary barotrauma from diving. These risks should not be ignored, but parents should make sure that their kids are adequately trained before diving. They should also avoid diving if they are suffering from any medical conditions. A divemaster should also supervise children who are not comfortable diving alone.
Children diving with adults is a dangerous activity. Children are more open-minded than adults, and may be attracted to distractions quicker than more experienced divers. This is why parents need to be careful and pair their child (or adult) with an experienced diver. The adult with experience can manage a child’s short attention span, tendency to be distracted from shiny objects, and lack of focus. 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 for kids to rent for scuba diving
When hiring equipment for scuba diving with kids, there are many things to consider. It is sometimes more affordable to purchase new equipment but it is difficult to return it once it is used. If there are more children than one, it is worth renting equipment until the child is able to use it themselves. It is often cheaper to rent equipment than to buy a whole package. It is important to know that scuba diving equipment should not be purchased for children.
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. It is easier to carry the cylinder around if it has a handle. Your child will soon outgrow your wetsuits. We recommend that they be as flexible as possible, but still snug. Hire a jacket that has ample straps. The jacket should fit comfortably, but allow your child to grow into it.
There are age restrictions on scuba diving for children
Although children younger than ten years can take a certification course, most organizations offer courses for children starting at ten years of age. Children will need to read the same material and pass the same exams as adults. It is important that they choose the right program for them. After they are certified, they can start diving. You can find a new adventure in the water with scuba diving for your child!
Even though most agencies offer courses that are suitable for children under eight years of old, the programs are only available in restricted water bodies. These children can't dive in open water without being accompanied by an adult with the same certification. PADI and SSI both offer certifications for children. You can learn more about scuba dive for kids by visiting our guide for parents.