Scuba Diving Lessons for 11-Year-Olds: A Parent's Guide

Question
My 11yr old son is very interested in becoming a diver. Oue area gymnastics club started a program 3 years ago. My son already has some experience with gymnastics. He is able to do front and back handsprings. What qualifications should I be looking for in an instructer and any other important things I should look for before enrolling him in a class?

Thanks,  Kay

Answer
Kay -

When deciding on a diving coach for your son, I suggest the following:

1. Choose a program where the coaches are US Diving Safety Certified.
2. Register with USA Diving or AAU Diving for insurance. More on this at the end of answer.
3. I would avoid programs run by city/county rec departments as these classes are usually taught by inexperienced lifeguards.
4. Choose a class that includes stretching and conditioning as that will be a key element for your son if he chooses to be a competitive diver.
5. If the program uses dryland equipment (trampolines and dry boards), are the instructors safety certified to use them.
6. He should start out on the 1 meter, and if the pool has 3 meters or platforms, use them when he is proficient as a beginner on the low board.

For more info on diving, go to these websites:

www.usadiving.org - Click on clubs, and then find a club. Enter your state and look for instructors. You can also register as an athlete for him. Also go to Store and click on educational materials. There you will find a parent handbook about diving.

www.aaudiving.org - Click on Diving sport contacts and when the map comes up, click on the district numbers closest to you. Contact that person(s) to find qualified instructors.

www.diving.about.com - Site that explains the sport.

www.flipnrip.com - Click on videos and then click on diving lessons.

www.usadiver.com - Articles about diving.

Good luck with your search.