Certifiying with My Son?

Question
Mr Giles,
My 14 year old son and I intend to take lessons and certify through our local NAUI program...hooray!
It's been suggested though that I should not take the same class side by side as my son as my preoccupation with his safety would be too distracting.  I can't agree (hey, that's my job!) , but I'm not objective- do you have an opinion?

Thanks,

-William


Answer
Hi William,

Congratulations on your decision to join the ranks of certified divers!!    You're already aware that there are two different lines of thought and my opinion actually bridges the two.

First, I strongly encourage my "family" divers to stay together in the class.  It's a great bonding experience and it gives all parties involved a chance to recognize and support other members in coping with any weaknesses.  After all, we're forming buddy teams and I think it's a great way to really get to know your future diving buddy.  I'm really not bothered by a parent's preoccupation with safety since safety is stressed in the classes anyway.  Scuba classes should not be stressful nor should the student be forced to do anything he's not comfortable with. Some hesitation is normal so you need to expect it and be prepared to let the instructor handle it.  A good instructor has ways of working with hesitant students.  Having said that, it's important for the parent to recognize that the instructor is solely responsible for training so you have to give him some latitude in dealing with hesitant students.  The urge to jump in and "help" the instructor can be strong and you have to resist it.  I have found that overprotective parents can actually give the hesitant student an "out" when they don't want to do something the instructor has asked them to do.  You have to take an objective look at your relationship with your son and ask yourself if you can take off the "parental coat" during the scuba class and just be a student yourself.  Of course the final decision will rest with the instructor so my opinion won't carry any weight in your class!!

If you're not sure if you can be objective while watching your son deal with the problems encountered in learning scuba diving, then I'd recommend that you attend separate classes.

When I encounter a situation such as yours, I have a frank discussion with the parent prior to registration and we come to a mutual agreement prior to the beginning of class.  This way there isn't likely to be any embarrassing confrontations after the class has begun.

William, I hope this gives you enough information to make an informed decision when enrolling you and your son in scuba classes.  I wish you the best in your diving endeavors and, who knows, I may see you and your son underwater somewhere!!

Sincerely,
Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com