If you are taking a beach vacation or family cruise to a tropical destination, introducing a child to the beautiful underwater world can be a magical experience, especially if they have shown an interest in fish, sea turtles, starfish, or other marine life.
If snorkeling sounds like something your child would enjoy, the best plan is to teach him the basics before leaving home.
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Parents do not need to purchase an expensive snorkel set, but should choose one with a silicone mask skirt rather than a plastic one, as the silicone option provides a tighter seal. Be sure to clean the lenses before first use, as there is often a production film left behind that can fog up. A light layer of toothpaste on the inner and outer lenses that is gently washed off with a brush and rinsed off under running water will do the trick. Also, most stores sell anti-fog gel that you can buy inexpensively and apply just before heading into the water.
The best age to start diving
Generally, 5 or 6 years old is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling. If your child is old enough to be comfortable in the pool, it is not too early to get an introduction to snorkeling gear. Teaching an older child will be even easier as they will already be mature enough to follow a series of instructions and instructions.
Introduction to snorkeling equipment
Whether a child starts out in the bathtub or at the shallow end of the pool, let them just play with the snorkel and mask in the water however they want and not start right away with proper technique. Familiarizing your child with the equipment at home first will make for a more comfortable learning experience in the pool or ocean.
How to teach children to dive
On average, it should take about 1 to 2 hours to teach a child to snorkel. If your child is still bathing, start your snorkeling classes in the bathtub before your trip. Young children will love this idea. Slightly older children can start at the shallow end of a pool.
Keep in mind that getting used to snorkeling gear can take time. Start with the mask without the snorkel. Have your child place only the front of the mask on his face. Then make sure the face mask fits you as all the kids hate it, like when the water leaks out. Have your child breathe in through his nose (this should make the mask stick to his face) and make sure to smooth out any loose hair. The main cause of water leakage in the mask.
Next, place the mask strap over your child’s head and snap it into position. Many children despise the feel of the rubber strap being pulled against their hair, so pull the strap away from your head in a way that minimizes hair pulling. Of course, if your child is frustrated, stop and try another time. Once they are comfortable in the mask, try adding the snorkel.
Now let your child play with the snorkel and learn to breathe. It is not necessary to thread the tube through the loop of the face mask. Just place it between the face mask and your child’s face. When a child panics while diving, it is usually because they have not mastered mouth breathing. It is important to let them practice in shallow water until they feel safe.
Once you’re on vacation, go snorkeling in a pool. Start at the kiddy pool or at the shallow end of the large pool. Throw the items on the pool floor and let your child look at them through the mask. Begin by practicing with your child upright and face down in the water before attempting to snorkel while swimming.
When you finally try snorkeling in the sea in real life, look for a quiet place, such as a sheltered cove or lagoon. This allows a child to become aware of the presence of sea critters without worrying about the waves. Big waves can make a child nervous at first. Bring water wings, a flotation board, life jacket, or pool noodles under the chest and armpits, so your child’s energy isn’t depleted just to stay afloat while diving.
Teach your child to be aware of his surroundings and not to kick other divers in the face. Some kids get so absorbed in what they see that they don’t notice other swimmers.
Finally, if it makes your child more comfortable, start by staying connected. Hold your hands in the water so your child knows where it is. If you disconnect, stay very close.
Vacation Tips
Many family hotels offer snorkeling equipment (often for a fee), but not all hotels offer equipment for children. Also, teach your child to stay away from coral, which is damaged when touched. Also, contact with the coral can scratch or cut your child’s hand.
