The reduction of the age limit from twelve to ten for an activity such as scuba diving by the largest training agency in the country/world is a good indicator of industry desperation. To certify children that young when it is physiologically risky, and when the participant may not have the capacity to comprehend the physical forces he or she is subject to while underwater is highly irresponsible and reprehensible. But no matter, at DEMA, at least one of the major equipment manufacturers already had child-ready BC's displayed in their booth.

Having taught my share of 12 to 14 year olds, I'm not sure that the minimum age for any scuba certification shouldn't be 15. Most, not all, kids of Junior Scuba Diver age I've dealt with are highly challenged by the academics as well as the physical requirements of a typical scuba course. Attention spans are limited as are strength and stamina. There's a world of difference between ten and twelve year olds, as there is between twelve and fifteen year olds. Proponents of the new minimum age contend that the kids that can't hack it will be weeded out. Then what? Do you refund their money even though you put in precious hours of your time to try to get them to a point where they can pass a written/oral test or perform skills that are beyond them? Dad wants him or her to dive. Mom's not so certain. And the kid doesn't know any better. Being somewhat familiar with this industry, believe many would take on the task and then pocket the money. Seems kind of cynical when the chances of failure are so high. Or they would just certify them, which is even more cynical.

A Junior Scuba Diver qualification is supposed to mandate that diving will be done with an adult as a buddy. Hopefully, that adult is well trained. If not, then risk escalates dramatically for the child in the event that something goes wrong. There are a significant number of us who think that much of today's instruction is inadequate. Conversely, if something happens to the adult, what are the chances of a successful rescue/assist by the child? Have known several instructors who taught their own pre-twelve kids to dive. However, they were their kids and not someone else's. What level of care does the child get when he or she is one among many other students? What's the quality of attention they get when their adult buddy isn't an instructor?

We have had success being upfront about our opinions with parents when they come to the store inquiring about certifying their kids. We try to discourage them as much as possible. Rather than resent this approach, most are appreciative. We gain a lot of credibility in their eyes because we are more concerned about the welfare of their children than making a sale. They often turn out to be loyal customers. We suggest other alternatives for family water activities in the manner of Tom Hemphill's excellent post. Snorkeling and SASY are activities the kids can enjoy without many of the inherent risks of scuba, which are exacerbated because they are children and not adults.

Gary Hagland NAUI 7778L