Son taking SCUBA lesson

Question
My 13 year old is taking SCUBA lessons now.  He is very comfortable with his gear on, and he is a good student (AB) in elementary school.  He is, unfortunately, a VERY SLOW reader, and is currently "behind" in the academic portion.  How can I help him?  I was certified 31 years ago but don't know how to help him study for the test!

Regards

Answer
Hi Keith, I am happy to provide some possible solutions to this issue.  Your first point of contact should be his instructor.  He should know how to deal with this scenario as it is not uncommon.  As an instructor, here is how I would try to work it out:  The academic portion of Open Water Scuba is completely self paced.  So if your son needs to take more time he should do so.  He should complete all of his academic reading and knowledge reviews.  Then, he can rejoin another class that is just preparing to start.  He could get credit for any pool dives and skills he has already done.  Another option is to obtain private instruction.  It costs a little more but once again the entire class is set at the pace and schedule your son needs to achieve his goals.  These options give him the opportunity to achieve his academics at his own pace and gain a sense of accomplishment.  Plus you and the instructor can reinforce any academic topics that he needs help with.  The knowledge reviews and final exam typically show where there was a lack of understanding.  Finally, another option is for a instructor taught academic session.  This means that an instructor teaches the academics rather than your son doing the self paced.  We generally don't like to do this because it is actually less effective.  But it is also an option.  

Talk to the instructor with these suggestions and I am sure you will all be able to work it out.  Best of luck to you and your son.  Jesse