Want to get your kids into diving? We talked to the experts at PADI to find out everything from age and health requirements to gear tips and fit. Here’s what they had to say.
1. How old can a child begin scuba training?
A child needs to be 10 years old to begin training. Children 10-11 years old must dive with a parent or guardian.
2. What health restrictions are involved?
Health and fitness for diving is crucial. Prior to any water work, all students must complete a medical questionnaire regarding medical conditions that can be a contraindication to diving fitness. Any ‘yes’ answers on the questionnaire require the signed clearance by a physician. In addition to the student, a parent or guardian must sign the medical questionnaire for any student under 18 years of age.
3. What sort of certification does a kid get?
A junior certification means they must dive with parents or guardian (ages 10 and 11) or with an adult trained diver (ages 12-14).
4. What is required in the training? (swimming requirements, etc)
Children, like adults, must meet all performance requirements for entry-level certification including 10-minute float/swim without swim aids and a 200 meter/yard continuous surface swim without aids or a 300 yard/meter swim with mask, snorkel and fins.
5. What diving restrictions are they under?
Besides the restrictions regarding age, there are depth restrictions for children in entry level training. Children aged 10 and 11 are restricted to diving to 40 feet and shallower, whereas Junior divers 12-14 years of age are restricted to 60 feet for entry level training.
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6. Should they buy their own gear?
Proper fit and comfort are essential in learning to scuba dive. This is especially important with children learning to dive. Ensuring that children have proper fitting gear is a service that PADI Dive Centers are equipped to provide. Owning this equipment can assure the student that the gear that is most comfortable for them is always available. Consult with your local PADI Dive Shop to determine what equipment is best suited for the child.
Check out Cressi's line of kid-friendly scuba gear.
Interested in a family dive vacation where your child can be certified as a diver? Check out upcoming Kids Sea Camp trips, and plan a trip that will create a lifetime of memories!