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What’s the Right Age to Certify My Kids?

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By: Stephanie Miele & Sean Harrison

“What is the best age to certify my kid?” This is a question we hear quite often SDI, and as you can imagine, it’s a pretty loaded question. So, to help shed some light on this topic, we wanted to get two perspectives to weigh in, so we asked a mother to give us her opinion about certifying her kid and then we asked a father for his opinion. Below is their response.

FROM A MOM’S PERSPECTIVE

jack-scuba-gear

I’m a parent, therefore, I worry.  I’m constantly trying to toe the line of being protective of my son, but still allowing him to have experiences that will shape his life for years to come (not an easy balance as many of you know).  I must admit that when I had him, I thought that the first few years were the toughest with just trying to survive the sleepless nights, and the life style that comes with having a very active toddler.  I was in for quite the shock as he got older and more adventurous that the balance of worry vs. experience intensified.

As he got out of the toddler years, started listening and maturing our lives began to change.  I found myself not planning my day around naps or having to lug around a diaper bag full of stuff and we began to go on “adventures”.  I loved seeing the world through his eyes and we started to explore different things together albeit carefully.  He has been hiking at the Grand Canyon, kayaking with seals in Washington state, windsurfing in Bonaire, and snorkeling in Florida, but when the idea of scuba diving was broached I had to admit that I was the one that was hesitant.

My son just turned 8 and he was able to partake in the SDI Future Buddies program.  For his birthday, he specifically asked for a snorkeling party at a local dive site and the opportunity to learn how to scuba dive.  There was a request for a barracuda themed birthday cake, but that is a story for another time.  I knew he wanted to dive and the time was coming, but I could not believe he was actually old enough to do it.  I did have to ask myself if he was ready and make that judgment call on his behalf.

To see if he was ready I asked myself the following questions as I do with any new activity:

1. Is he mature enough to partake in the activity?

I have witnessed my child in many situations and for him to be able to scuba dive I had to make sure that he had the attention span and the physical ability to do it.   Jack has been swimming for many years and, at this point, he is a stronger swimmer than I am.  He naturally took to freediving to the bottom of the pool and last year, when we were on vacation, he was freediving to about 15 feet to the ocean bottom.  He is naturally at ease in the water so the physical comfort was easy for me to feel ok about.

Now, the attention span was a different story.  Since the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, in this case, his attention span was something that I was hesitant about.  We started watching videos before he even got in the pool and we bought a fish identification chart so that we could identify what we were seeing in the videos.  His attention span for these videos and identification chart was amazing and it made me feel better about him getting in the pool.  This had a very positive effect on his attention span, allowing him to hold an interest in the activity and demonstrate to me that he was capable of retaining important information about it.  This made me feel much more at ease about him moving on to the practical pool sessions where the most crucial concepts are introduced.

2. Do I get a good feeling from the instructor taking him in the water?

jack-brian

Well, my husband was the instructor and he has his son’s best interests in mind.  There was a lot of pressure on him to make sure that the experience was positive.  That and if he messed it up, he would have to answer to me.  Nonetheless, my husband is an excellent instructor and has so much experience with teaching kids scuba programs that my mind was at ease that my son was in good hands.

Had I not known the instructor that was taking him diving, I would have taken a course with him/her to see if I liked their method of teaching and if they would be a right fit for my son.  Also, I would have asked to talk to his/her past students for feedback about their experiences.  Additionally, I would take my son with me and visit the facility where the training was taking place to see if he felt comfortable.  Choosing the instructor would have been an interview process and my son would have met the instructor so that I could see their interaction above the water first hand.

3. Is his interest genuine?

For me, I needed to know whether this is something he wanted to do or if he was doing it because of what mommy and daddy do for a living.  We offered him all sorts of other options for his birthday gift and he kept coming back to scuba.   He was so excited to try scuba because of his genuine interest and not doing it because he thought it would please me.  My mind was made up after I realized that he was mature enough, his attention span could be held and I felt very comfortable with the instructor.  It was worth a try.
Each child is different and as parents, we need to the research to make sure that we are making the best decisions for them.  I think there are some children that are naturally adventurous so having little mental checklists when deciding what may or may not be a fit for them can be helpful.

In the end, he was ready and honestly quite a natural at the sport.  I was beyond impressed with his skills in the water and …… Seeing him experience breathing underwater for the first few times was a memory that I will never forget.  Plus, now I can actually get back in the water without feeling guilty about leaving him behind.  As a parent, I am constantly second guessing myself with all of the choices that I have to make for him, but the one thing that I am certain of beyond doubt is what he is ready for.  In my heart, I knew he was ready but it was good to put the time in and really think if it was right for him.

FROM A DAD’S PERSPECTIVE

sean-darwin

Sitting in a marketing meeting, don’t you just love meetings! and the topic of articles comes up. Normally I turn off at this point. I have written plenty of articles in the past but I can’t hit deadlines and if I don’t do a massive brain dump while I am formulating the thoughts for what I just committed to, it probably won’t happen.   So here I am, 30 minutes outside the meeting and doing a brain dump.

My wife always said, if our sons did not like water, they were going to have a rough life

My perspective on when someone should be certified will certainly be different from others, being on and in the water has been my life. My wife, also a water person, always said, if our sons did not like the water, they were going to have a rough life. So here’s what we did to one, make sure they were safe around the water and two, make sure they had an appreciation for the water. Both of those create comfort.

We started our sons in the water shortly after birth, nothing major or crazy, but they were in pools, lakes, and the ocean whenever the opportunity presented itself, which was often. Both started swim lessons pretty early, for those parents that have done these “swim lessons” you know they are really more about getting the parent comfortable with their child in the water and retraining the child not to breath underwater. Eventually, our little guppies moved up to the point where they passed the basic swim test so they could swim in the deep end of the pool. The lessons were heavily supplemented by their mom swimming and teaching them even more. Okay…I will admit, mom did the majority work. Summers were and still are filled with swimming pool and ocean swim time, snorkeling,  and yes, the occasional ear infection.

Self-rescue

The final test to ease up on some of the supervision (even though we are always within sight) while they were in or around the water, was the self-rescue fully clothed. Here is how we did it, although I am certain there are other (maybe even better) ways of doing this test. The boys were full dressed: long sleeve shirt, long pants, shoes, and socks, they jumped in the pool and had to swim to the other end and back, float for five or so minutes, then get out of the water without a ladder. Needless to say, both our boys passed with flying colors. Our youngest, he was three at the time, continued to swim fully dressed for the next 45 minutes. He thought it was fun.

It’s not just as simple as saying “my child wants to scuba dive, so I thought I would sign them up for dive lessons”

I write all of the above because I believe it’s not just as simple as saying “my child wants to scuba dive, so I thought I would sign them up for dive lessons”, they first need to have that comfort and respect for the water. The path we choose is of course not the only one: sailing, water skiing, surfing, boogie boarding, white water rafting, and the list goes on, all lead to a comfort and respect for the water. The final component and this one needs to be assessed by the parent (be honest) and the potential scuba instructor, is maturity.

SDI minimum age for scuba certification is 10 years old, but that does not mean all 10-year-olds are ready, it also doesn’t mean all 18-year-olds are ready

Scuba diving requires constant assessment and situational awareness. There are gauges to watch, buddies to keep track of, an exit point to find, and water conditions to deal with. Parents with kids that are interested in scuba diving should visit their local SDI dive center and speak with an SDI instructor, try to find an SDI instructor that enjoys teaching children. Make an appointment ahead of time so you, your child, and the instructor can really spend some time together. The SDI instructor can let your child try on gear, hold the equipment they will be using, and answer those questions rattling around in their head like: “Did they ever find Dory?” and “can I dive to the deepest part of the ocean?”.

I am happy to report that our oldest son is progressing well in his scuba class, rock solid in the water if we can just get him to do the homework! Good luck getting your children certified, it is a blast to share the sport with them and see the look of amazement in their eyes. It’s also very cool hearing them say to their classmates “I scuba dive” they quickly become the coolest kid in school.


To find out more about International Training, visit www.tdisdi.com.

From its humble beginning in 1994 to today, the group of training agencies Scuba Diving International (SDI), Technical Diving International (TDI), and Emergency Response Diving International (ERDI) form one of the largest diving certification agencies in the World – International Training. With 24 Regional Offices servicing more than 100 countries, the company today far exceeds the original vision the founders had when they conceived the idea on a napkin, sitting at a kitchen table in the early 1990’s.

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Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

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underwater videography course

Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces

NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.

Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking

Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:

“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.

A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”

About NovoScuba

Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.

With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.

Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!

Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.

EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba

NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

underwater videography course

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

underwater videography course

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

underwater videography course

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

  • Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
  • Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

underwater videography course

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

underwater videography course

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.

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NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

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novoscuba

novoscubaThe diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

novoscuba

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

novoscuba

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

  • Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
  • Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

novoscuba

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

novoscuba

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.

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