- 08.12.2023
Scuba diving classes create unique opportunities for family vacations, providing not only a terrific way to have fun, but also helping the physical, intellectual development of children. With proper training, scuba diving becomes fun, safe. But there is a reasonable question - from how old you can engage in diving.
Age restrictions
In most cases, training is available for those over the age of 10. International standards managed by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) provide for diving programs starting at age 10-12.
Some dive schools offer training for children from the age of 8, and sometimes even younger. But in this case diving should not exceed a depth of 1-2 meters. From 10-12 years it is allowed to dive to 12 meters. And the depth of 18 meters is allowed to conquer at the age of 15 years (from 12-15 years is more of an exception than a rule).
Children's courses are conducted only after obtaining the written consent of parents or guardians. Young divers will dive and swim underwater under the full control of the instructor.
Information about the age at which diving can be practiced is also reflected in the certificates. Children under the age of 15 only receive limited versions such as Junior Open Water Diver, which gives them the opportunity to dive under the supervision of an experienced instructor or experienced diver. As they get older, gaining more experience, they can upgrade their certificates to full adult versions.
Contraindications for diving lessons
Regardless of how old children are allowed to dive, you should not dive if you have any of the following contraindications:
Cardiovascular system. Hemodynamically significant cardiac anomalies. Serious ventricular arrhythmias in the history, heart failure, cardiac dystonia.
Respiratory system. Active asthma, bronchiectatic disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, history of spontaneous pneumothorax, interstitial lung disease, lung cysts or bullae, Marfan syndrome.
ENT organs. Untreated allergic rhinitis, perforated tympanic membrane, upper respiratory tract infection, marked swelling or stenosis of the ear canal.
Psychiatric disorders. Panic attacks, phobias, epilepsy, schizophrenia.
Metabolic disorders. Extreme obesity, type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Limitation of movement due to chronic diseases, injuries of the musculoskeletal system also refers to contraindications. The absence of any limb complicates maneuverability in the water, creates a certain threat to life during diving. Before starting children's courses, it is recommended to undergo a medical examination, get permission from a specialized specialist.
Benefits of diving for children
Children's courses on diving and swimming at depth have physical, psychological pluses:
Physical development. This type of activity develops strength, flexibility, endurance, and movement coordination. Swimming requires extra effort from children, which has a positive effect on their overall physical fitness.
Development of self-control skills, discipline. Diving requires strict adherence to safety rules and procedures, which helps to form a sense of responsibility.
Learning new skills. Young divers learn to work with equipment, planning dives, control of breathing, aquatic environment.
Learning about the underwater world. Diving provides children with a unique opportunity to see a variety of fish species, corals, and other marine organisms. This promotes their interest in nature, environmental conservation.
Teamwork, social skills. Diving is usually done in a group, which helps develop the ability to work in a team, communicate with other participants.
Diving for children should be done under the strict supervision of experienced instructors. If the child meets the permissible age, then perform a mandatory assessment of suitability for such physical activity - a careful collection of anamnesis, a complete medical examination.
