Kids spend twice as long staring at TV, computer, and smartphone screens as they do playing outside, according to a study conducted by Persil. Today, most kids would rather stay inside playing video games or scrolling through their social media timelines which, according to health professionals, can affect their physical and mental health over time. To prevent this, one awesome activity that you can introduce your child to is scuba diving. With their likeness to learn new skills and natural curiosity, kids can become some of the best scuba divers. However, it is up to you to ensure that your kids get a proper introduction to scuba diving so that they can enjoy the wonders of the underwater world safely.
Make sure they are ready
Before introducing your child to scuba diving, it is crucial to ensure that they are truly interested. First impressions form quickly for kids, and their first experience of scuba diving has the potential to inspire them for years to come. If your child is keen on trying scuba diving, the next step is to ensure that they can put their heads under water without feeling apprehensive.
This is where a professional instructor comes in. It is wise to enroll your child in a scuba diving class where they can learn everything they need to know about diving such as the types of equipment needed and the proper breathing techniques when under water. For the best results, choose a training center that is used to working with young kids.
Take the necessary safety precautions
Scuba diving can be dangerous, especially when doing it in the sea where you have no control of environmental conditions. As such, it is up to you to plan for every safety-related scenario before setting off. The first thing you need to get right is the diving location. Not all diving spots will be safe for children, especially where the water is deep or where there are lots of currents. As such, do some due diligence to pick a child-friendly diving location. You also need to ensure that you bring all the required safety gear and that it all fits your child perfectly to allow them to maneuver the waters comfortably.
Another thing you must not forget is anti-allergic medication, especially when going scuba diving in an overseas destination. You don’t want to deal with an allergic reaction while at sea, as it can preclude the safe use of scuba diving equipment and prevent your child from diving. As your child dives, keep a close eye on them to ensure that they stay within limits and out of harm’s way the entire time.
Thanks to advancements in training and equipment along with shifting attitudes, scuba diving has evolved from an adventure reserved for only the brave and hardy to one that the whole family can enjoy. By introducing your child to scuba diving, you are not only teaching them about the fun sport of scuba diving and the underwater environment, but also creating precious memories that you’ll treasure forever.
Article kindly submitted by Jen Johnson
