Going to the beach is one of the best bonding activities the whole family can enjoy. You can go to a swim and build sand castles together. But if you want to do a different activity on your next trip to the beach, your whole family can try snorkeling.
It’s a great idea to introduce the beauty of the underwater to the kids. But if you’re worried because your children haven’t tried it before, then here are some tips that might help you enjoy snorkeling with them.
Preparation
Before heading to the beach, there are some things you should do and check first which will help your children be prepared for snorkeling. Here are some of the preparations you might want to consider.
Equipment:
One of the important parts of introducing children to snorkeling is letting them know about the equipment needed. There are two important pieces of equipment they need to learn about at first, the mask and the snorkel.
Practice:
If you have a bathtub at home, you may practice them there. Start with teaching them how to wear the mask properly. Then, you may let them play with the mask and the snorkel until they get the hang of breathing through it. You may also bring them to kiddie pools to practice. Try throwing things into the pool and challenge them to see those things while wearing the mask. Once they have enough practice, they are ready for the beach where the real snorkeling activity happens.
Choose the best snorkeling destination:
Since you’re going with the whole family, choose a snorkeling place that has a child-friendly environment. It’s best if you choose beaches that has shallow waters where they can be more comfortable and where they can clearly spot the sea animals close enough.
Checklist:
Of course, before heading to the beach, there are important things you should remember to bring.
Snorkel Fins:
Aside from the mask and snorkel, you should also consider getting some snorkel fins. These will help the children swim easier. You can also buy full kids snorkel set where all of these things are included.
Floatation Device:
Also, do not forget the snorkel vest, or any floatation device for added safety.
Proper Swimming Clothes:
For swimming clothes, choose those which have UV protection.
Sunscreen:
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, because you will all be exposed to the sun at the beach.
First Aid Kit:
You should also carry with you a first-aid kit for emergency purposes.
Camera:
Lastly, don’t forget to bring your camera so you can capture the best moments with your kids.
During the Activity
While everyone is excited when you reach the snorkeling destination, there are also some things you should keep in mind especially with having the kids around.
Safety:
It is important to check the wind and surf condition first to ensure safety. If the weather is good, then you may lead the kids to start snorkeling. Also, before going to the waters, make sure that you are all wearing your UV protected clothes. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen as well.
Guidance:
You may let them try the mask and snorkel first in a certain spot where the water is calm. Once they get used to it, you may let them use the fins so they can swim around. You can also let them wear a life vest, or place a pool noodle under their chest and armpits to make sure that they will keep floating. You should also advise your kids not to touch the corals as these can give them cuts and bruises. Remember to always keep an eye on your kids while you enjoy the activity as well.
Take Photos and Have Fun:
This is the most important part that you should not forget. Since this is the first time that your kids will try snorkeling, it will be wonderful if you take photos of them, and your whole family as well. It’s also great if you can bring an underwater camera, too.
Snorkeling is an activity that can increase the children’s confidence and knowledge about the underwater. Aside from having fun, it can also serve as a gate for them to discover other water activities that they might want to try soon. We hope that these tips helped you in planning out your next beach adventure with your family, especially with the kids.