We've all heard that babies can swim when they're very young since they spend the entire pregnancy inside their mother's womb surrounded by amniotic fluid. You might think this is a myth, but it's actually true. Want confirmation?

Diving in Spain


Baby Immersion


It's known as "baby immersion", though paediatricians do advise against taking them to swimming pools until 6 months old. Nowadays, there are specially adapted pools for babies that allow entry as soon as the umbilical cord falls off.

The advantage of starting so early is that the baby retains reflexes from their time in the womb. Babies maintain the "glottis reflex" until 3-5 months old, preventing water from entering their lungs.

This activity is highly recommended for infants as it enhances motor skills, leading to better coordination and lower obesity rates. It also creates a strong communicative and emotional bond with parents that's perfect for development.

Diving courses in Spain


Now, your child might be older, and you - as a diving enthusiast - may want to share this passion with your loved one. In this case, you might have questions about age requirements or other prerequisites, but don't worry - this article covers everything you need to know about exploring the underwater world with your children.

Undoubtedly, one of the most important aspects of scuba diving is feeling comfortable and relaxed underwater - especially when accompanied by your child. Therefore, gradual adaptation to the aquatic environment is essential to eventually become a certified diver.

Diving Activity Regulations


Currently, since 2020, the Official State Gazette (BOE) published a Royal Decree regulating diving activities, setting the minimum age at 18 years, with exceptions: for recreational or sports diving, the minimum age is 8 years with these depth limits:

AgeMaximum Depth
8-9 years6 metres
10-11 years12 metres
12-15 years21 metres
16-18 years40 metres

Beyond these safety regulations, major diving certifications (PADI, SSI or FEDAS) have established their own minimum age requirements for qualification programmes.

PADI

If you want your child to become a PADI-certified diver (via PADI), they must be at least 10 years old to obtain the PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification (dives up to 12m). At 15, they can upgrade to the standard PADI Open Water Diver (18m limit).

Padi Open Water Diver


SSI

This certification (SSI) allows children aged 10+ to begin diving. They can start with the Basic Diver certification, permitting dives to 12 metres.

FEDAS

Diving is permitted from age 8, but the FEDAS CMAS diving qualification can only be obtained from age 12 (Junior Diver). At 14, this can be converted to the B1E certification.

Now you know all the details - including the advantages and minimal disadvantages (when following regulations) of diving with children. Why not start looking for a new dive site to enjoy with your little ones?