Scuba diving offers a unique opportunity to teach science and technology to your kids, making it a great family activity. Scuba diving can be a great way to bond with your family and teach them the value of responsible behavior. The importance of self-discipline, abstractions, and maturity are essential for children. Children need to develop 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
Diverseing for kids has some safety issues. Divers under the age of eight are at greater risk of developing pulmonary Barotrauma. These risks cannot be ignored. However, parents must ensure their children are well-trained before they dive. If they have medical conditions, parents should not allow their children to scuba dive. Divemasters should supervise any children who aren't able to dive by themselves.
For children, the primary risk factor is inexperience of adults who are responsible for the safety of the divers. Children have different mindsets than adults and can fall prey to distractions easier than more experienced divers. Parents should ensure that their child is paired with an experienced adult. An experienced adult can help a child with their short attention span and tendency for being distracted by shiny objects. A competent adult can monitor the child’s air consumption, rate of ascent, swimming position, depth, and swimming position.
Equipment for kids to rent for scuba diving
When hiring equipment for scuba diving with kids, there are many things to consider. Although it may seem cheaper to buy new equipment, it is often not possible to return it after it has been used. If there are more children than one, it is worth renting equipment until the child is able to use it themselves. You can also rent gear at a lower cost than purchasing a complete package. You don't want your kids to be in danger when you buy scuba diving gear.
Although wetsuits don't weigh as much as scuba tank, they should still be able to fit your child. A 7 or 10 Liter cylinder is sufficient. It is easier to carry the cylinder around if it has a handle. It is important that wetsuits are not too loose or flexible. Your child will soon grow out of them. A jacket with plenty of straps is also a good option. The jacket should allow your child to grow into it, but be large enough to allow the diver to breathe properly and feel comfortable.
Scuba diving is not recommended for children under the age of 18.
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 can be a fun and exciting new way for your child to experience the underwater world.
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. Children over this age cannot dive in open waters and must be accompanied with an adult who has the same certification. However, there are several programs offered for children to get certified, including those offered by PADI and SSI. If you're interested in learning more about scuba diving for kids, check out our guide for parents!