Why should I enroll my child in a diving course?
Diving is a team activity and as such teaches discipline and responsibility. Although playfully based, the children’s training teaches cooperation between divers, motivates them to take an interest in physics, travel, environmental protection and a healthy lifestyle.
At what age can a child start learning to dive?
A child can start learning to dive in a swimming pool or similar waters as early as at the age of 8 – the Scuba Scout course. Children aged 7 years can only take part in a diving course with ABC equipment – Snorkeler Scout.
Is diving safe for your child's health?
There are no scientific studies that would indicate a negative impact of diving on a child’s health, however, IDF training programs, to ensure even greater safety, strongly limit the depth and duration of the stay under water – according to the motto – Safety First!
Does your child have to undergo a medical examination before the course starts?
The course begins by completing a medical questionnaire with the legal guardian. If the answers are affirmative, the child should undergo a medical consultation before the course begins. If the questionnaire answers negatively, it means that the child has no typical contraindications to diving – medical examinations are not required in this situation.
Is diving safe?
Recreational diving, especially when performed at such small depths as children can dive, is much safer than many other popular sports such as skiing.
Is the instructor prepared to help the child underwater?
IDF instructors have high quality rescue skills and diving experience. They are therefore well prepared to respond appropriately in an emergency situation.
Does the child have to be able to swim before starting the course?
The child should feel at ease in the water, be able to stay afloat and move around for a short distance. The final assessment of the child’s swimming skills will be made by the instructor conducting the training.
Does the child need to have his or her own equipment during the course?
Having your own equipment is not a requirement for taking the course in the vast majority of diving centers. Usually it is only recommended to have your own ABC equipment – mask, snorkel and fins – for hygienic reasons.
Does the completion of the children's course help to shorten the course for adults?
The Scout programs do not shorten the courses for adults, while the Junior Open Water Diver and Junior Master Diver programs allow to shorten the courses for adults.
Will I be able to dive with my child on my own?
Parents can dive with their children as long as they have a Rescue Diver degree – which proves that they have adequate diving experience and rescue skills.